'New Swag in Town' Part 6 - Trying Not to Get Red-Handed

It was a good thing that everybody tried to subdue the fire first which gave enough time for the fire brigade to take out the rest of the fire. The blue fire was out, but the bar already suffered enough. It was reduced to ash, wood planks and checked over to see if there is still anyone inside, but no casualties so far.

The Gulf Diggers are lucky to survive, but several of the Country Trolls are frightened by their appearance due to their reputation back in Lonesome Flats. They got arrested and taken away.

Bastille slowly understood once he saw the face of the leader; he recognized it from the wanted posters.

Charleston isn't sure how to feel. She never knew the Gulf Diggers and she doesn't really know their crimes before. But it should be the right thing to hand them in since they are technically criminals, right?

Finn, on the other hand, doesn't know what is going on. He even started questioning Jazzy when the tired Chess Master finished being asked questions by the Country Trolls.

"Jazzy, what the bloody heck is that all about?" said Finn, staring at the remains of the bar.

"Good news, Electro Ray," said Jazzy. "We arrested the first few criminals that dared to enter TrollsTopia."

"But, those guys. They just look like…"

He stared at one of the Gulf Diggers who woke up. The first thing he does?

WHACK!

Punch the closest Country Troll he sees. How he does it looked rather pathetic as he was unable to balance himself properly.

"A bunch of drunk bludgers," finished Finn. "You're sure that THEY are criminals?"

"You will be surprised at how dysfunctional most of them are," muttered Jazzy."

"I heard of the Gulf Diggers before," said Bastille. "Bunch of bad apples there."

"They said that the old members have passed away long ago," said Jazzy. "How come the leader hired…younger-looking members?"

"Maybe they are just desperate," said Charleston, trying to join in with a constructed mindset Jazzy might have about them. "Young people who just don't care about the society."

"Bad news," said Jazzy, ignoring Charleston. "Bruce Ritardando is back here."

Finn's eyes widened. "Wait, what?! You mean…that guy who…"

"Yeah, he meant his word."

Bastille tried to catch up. "You meant that 'Classical guy' with the golden grenade?"

Jazzy nodded. "It seems that he even made up his own team called…the 'Moon Hawkers'."

"It's Midnight Hawks," corrected Charleston. "Midnight Hawks."

"Why would anyone name themselves a term relating to a shop?" muttered Bastille.

Finn gave Charleston a look, a bit confused with how she got the criminal team's name right, but also why she still didn't call him his nickname for the last few hours.

"Half of them look like professionals," said Jazzy. "Half of them look like…teenagers."

Bastille raised an eyebrow. The Gulf Diggers and the Midnight Hawks are partly made up by young teenagers like him. It is a huge wonder how they got into this kind of business when they should be studying, in college or just resting in their apartment. Why did they choose to go down a bad path like this? Bounty hunters, maybe. But criminals, robbers and murders? Eesh.

"And we even fought them!" said Charleston. "They are pretty prepared for everyone."

Jazzy glared at Charleston. "You blew up a bar."

"But still! It is enough to send them out."

"And we lost them because of that! You used a rocket launcher without knowing what it can do, lost aim of it and nearly brought the whole bar down with all of us." Jazzy's skin turned red in stern. "You're lucky that nobody died in there!"

Charleston stayed silent for a while before grinning and giving the thumbs up.

"Just another day in TrollsTopia!" she said.

"This isn't really another day in TrollsTopia," groaned Bastille, rubbing his face. "Please try to control yourself when it comes to huge fights like this, Charlie."

The brown Swing Troll pouted. "Fine then."

"Was there anybody else involved in this?" asked Finn. "With what is going on, I am not sure if it is just two criminal groups involved."

Charleston thought to herself. "Well…as I tried to escape, I got into a dirty handle with some Troll covered in silver armor. All silver I have to say!"

Jazzy feels her heart skip a beat at the sound of this. What did she say?

"Silver armor?" she said slowly.

Charleston continued without noticing how worried Jazzy is getting. "He or she seems to be wearing…completely silver armos with black track pants with a lot of weapons on them. There is an arrow shape glowing orange, going downways, on the helmet."

Bastille noticed that the color on Jazzy's face had turned pale compared to her now-red skin. There is dread spreading onto her face as she listens to Charleston. Not because of how the person looked. Bastille realized that the Chess Master KNEW something about the armored Troll before. She looked like she needed to throw up.

Charleston finally stopped, looking at Jazzy. "...are you having a brain freeze at the moment?"

"No…freaking…WAY!" exclaimed Jazzy.

Finn raised an eyebrow. "You're alright, Jazzy?"

But the Chess Master shook her head, starting to walk around in circles.

"I-I can't believe it!" she said. "I thought he was gone a long time ago!"

"Gone?" said Bastille. "What do you mean?"

Jazzy glared at him, but it wasn't directly at him. She knew that whoever was in that silver armor means that this criminal is back in time. Completely bad news to the entire town of TrollsTopia. She swore the last time she heard him, he was blown down to the ground. Now, he must have survived.

"This is very serious, everyone," she hissed. "We have to alert the leaders about it. And I believe that Hickory is here as well?"

Pop Village, Poppy's Home

Branch and Poppy have really similar reactions when Hickory came around, but nevertheless have mixed feelings with the Yodel Troll around. The first time he helped them out, he nearly betrayed them.

Branch got a little wary around the Yodel Troll. He remembers around the end of the World Tour, he kept his eyes on him and Dickory, but it seems that Dickory was the more jerkful out of the duo while Hickory is a nice saint. To be honest, he enjoys more of Hickory when he isn't acting suspicious. What would be the most significant time with him was when Hickory gave Branch advice on being in a good relationship with Poppy and got him thinking that he shouldn't hide behind her shallowness.

After all the drama, Branch decided to give Hickory one chance. While still pessimistic, Hickory didn't dare to do anything bad to him or try to play with him. He isn't as bad as Cloud Guy. This bounty hunter is as cool as a cucumber. And while Hickory is much wilder, he agrees on some of Branch's worries and so on. He just wishes that Hickory doesn't act so charming all the time because he fears he might be under his spell as well.

Poppy is more than happy to see Hickory again. Even though Hickory had been working for Barb, she forgave him anyway. She had grown to like him over time and enjoyed his company from time to time. Oh, his nice hat, his clothing and that abs of his…wait, she shouldn't be thinking like this. Surely, Hickory would already have another woman or man of his own. Hickory is just the embodiment of the dirt and cool air in the desert.

She thinks that she might have made Branch jealous a few times. Some of them are just to tease him, but in the end, Poppy rather be with him. Honestly, she isn't exactly heads over heels for Hickory, and felt that he is too perfect. TOO perfect for her. And besides, she isn't comfortable around his brother who makes a huge fuss about thinking Hickory would go out with her and Branch.

Right now, both Pop Trolls are having a nice conversation with Hickory during dinner while Poppy tries not to look distracted by his looks and Branch keeps rolling his eyes every time Hickory tries to make flirty comments with one of them.

"You were kidding when you wanted to hang one Troll," said Hickory.

Branch sighed. "I was just VERY uncomfortable with that guy who would be licking all over me…even if I'm not near him figuratively."

"I think people are already starting to like us now," said Poppy. "Seems a little slow with the ambassadors."

"You mean with…Punk, Bebop, Nigel, Smooth Move and Jacques?"

"Punk made it clear to me that the Indie Trolls don't want it to be all 'cupcakes and rainbows'," said Branch. "Bebop just accepted it immediately."

"Smooth Move had been nice so far," explained Poppy. "Jacques had been…a little rude."

"Nigel was all over the place," groaned Branch, closing his eyes at the memory of his Nigel's feathers.

"Don't worry," said Hickory as he leaned back on his chair. "I'm sure that they will warm up to you in no time. You two already did that!"

"It was mostly Poppy," said Branch. "Who for some reason had a lot of attention and flash that is as close as danger."

Poppy gave Branch a look. "Well, surely we know what to do. If at this rate in measuring the quality of this town at the right level, then they will want to stay!"

"I just hope that nothing becomes broken."

BOOM!

Too bad that the door isn't indestructible because it suddenly went flying across the trio's head. It landed into the fridge, smashing into three pieces. Just at where the door used to be was a puffing Jazzy, looking REALLY mad. Charleston gives a friendly wave, Bastille is biting his own lip and Finn is just watching from the background.

"Hey!" shouted Branch. "That was a new door we got!"

"Sorry, Branch," said Jazzy as she entered. "But this is important. There has been a crime gang war that happened earlier at Country Corral."

Poppy stood up, shocked by this. "Wait, what?"

Branch's ear perked up. "What happened there?"

"Remember that criminal, Bruce Ritardando?" said Jazzy. "He is back and with a team."

Poppy is rightfully concerned. "Oh no."

"Ritardando?!" said Branch. "H-He's back? I knew it!"

Meanwhile, Hickory is nearly discordant about this. "Have those boys been apprehended?"

"Bruce and his team of Midnight Hawks escaped," said Jazzy. "But the gang they are fighting is also arrested."

In Poppy's mind, this is already a bad sign. She saw it coming, but she didn't know that Bruce would come in this quickly. But he must have spent the past months planning this. Who else is running amok around TrollsTopia? That means no one is going to be safe just yet and it is bad since the other sub tribes just arrived.

Hickory shrugged as he stood up. "Don't worry. Maybe I can go catch them. They must be pretty new, so new criminals are easier to catch than old ones."

Jazzy stared at him for a while before saying, "You are forgetting about Grunge."

The second he heard that name, Hickory stopped from walking out of the room. "What?"

"Grunge is still out there," said Jazzy.

The whole thing is like a word bomb to Hickory. He turned around slowly with a look on his face that nobody ever saw before.

"G-Grunge?" he said.

"Yeah…" said Charleston sheepishly, scratching the back of her head. "There was this guy all in silver armor and he tried to slash me with his sword."

Hickory stared at Charleston for a while before letting this absorb in. Immediately, he started to worry, rubbing his forehead.

"I-I can't believe it!" he said. "I thought I already dealt with Grunge before!"

"You know that criminal before?" asked Bastille.

"He is a really dangerous mercenary. You don't want to be around him."

"Can you all tell me what is going on here?!" said Branch.

Hickory sighed, calming down a little. He made his way to the chair and sat down on it.

"Grunge is a bounty hunter like me," he said. "He goes more around the hinterlands than the mainland."

"We can already see that," said Branch. "I doubt any of the tribes know him."

"That is because nobody knows who is the Troll behind the mask," points out Hickory. "He currently takes the shape of a Pop Troll, but nobody knows what he aligns himself to. He doesn't do that many musical numbers or at least…sing. He is just like a robot programmed for its only mission."

"And that is?" said Poppy.

"It is unknown, but a few of us bounty hunters have been trying to track him down. Some of us weren't able to make it back." Hickory paused to shiver a little. "Some never came out alive when they get too close to him. However, we are starting to notice that he is associated with a criminal gang run by a kingpin named Pilot Diamond; an Indie Alternative Bounty Hunter who gained power through stealing and manipulating so many people."

"You know this 'Pilot' as well?" asked Poppy.

Jazzy nodded. "The best of the bounty hunters met him before. The last time I met him was somewhere at Lonesome Flats."

"And the last time I saw Grunge was when I tried to kill him," said Hickory.

Branch blinked, turning to Hickory. "You did what?!"

Hickory sighed. "Grunge had proved to be too dangerous back in those days. Mercilessly killing a lot, stealing priceless artifacts and causing so much destruction at several towns. One client of mine hired me to take him down and I knew that this had to be done. No time for malarkey."

As he stared out at the window, he remembered that time.

He was hiding behind a sandy hill, watching from a distance. Right in front and below him was a small village that was completely deserted. Almost. That place was the spot where Grunge and some other criminals would go to hide. He waited patiently there while Dickory and a few other bounty hunters who were enlisted quickly filled the place with bombs.

"Me and my brother made a plan to wait until Grunge went out and then planted several bombs around the deserted village. We knew that Grunge didn't have anyone innocent there or kidnap them, so this was the best thing to do to take him out. After a while, it took us hours to wait for Grunge to arrive back."

He felt the tension. The stress. The fear that it might go wrong and Grunge would start to hunt them down. When Grunge appeared in a buggy with other criminals, he knew this was it. He waited patiently as the armored Troll wordlessly marched over to one of the houses and a bright glow emitted from the windows.

Hickory was grateful that Dickory did a check on if there was anything underground and he found a small underground lair.

"This was our chance, but I got so nervous that I waited for a few seconds after Dickory gave me the signal."

And Hickory could never forget the eruption that consumed the entire village. He was surprised on that day that the entire village fell into the Earth like making a new grave. Everything turned into a messy heap of brown, yellow and black as orange flames spread over like a blanket with trails of grey smoke being left behind.

He could only hear the explosion and it still rang in his mind.

Bastille let all of this sink into his skin. Hickory had some history with Grunge and he was supposed to kill what seemed to be the most nefarious bounty hunter in the world. However, after what Charleston told them, all doubt that Grunge would survive got thrown out of the window. But it seemed that it stuck with Hickory for a long time.

"You've been unsure for a long time," he finally said. "And did you check for the bodies?"

Hickory shook his head. "It was all rubble. We couldn't exactly get through there, but we didn't hear any screams and only smelled the burning of…flesh. We deemed them to be dead."

"If Grunge is still alive," said Jazzy. "Then that means he is still out there. Not only that, he wouldn't get out of there alone. His whole team must have survived there."

"But what does it have to do with coming here?" asked Finn. "Wouldn't it be like bloody years for him to track you down when he could in a span of weeks?"

"We don't know that for sure. He wouldn't dare to come over here. That said, only if on a command…"

Hickory thought about it. "Then I think that Pilot Diamond has something to do with this. If Grunge is sent here, then that means he must have did."

"How can you be sure of that?" asked Branch. "That person could be here right now!"

"Pilot may be a jerk, but he is the mastermind behind things," said Hickory. "He chooses to not engage in combat first and throws whatever he has at first. Like disposing of several of his men on these kinds of missions."

"Do you think he knows about TrollsTopia?" asked Poppy.

"Pilot would be out partying in the hinterlands," explained Jazzy. "But he…has spies all around to give him the latest feedback."

The Pop Queen rubbed her hands, suddenly paranoid. "OK. That makes sense."

"So what now?" asked Bastille. "Is there anything we can do?"

Hickory narrowed his eyes. "I am going after Pilot Diamond. That means my stay here has to be cut short."

"What?" said Poppy, a little disappointed. "For real?"

"I'm sorry, but this is urgent business. It might be easy for you guys to be able to take care of the criminals, but facing up against Pilot - a criminal gang lord - is a much more dangerous threat to all of the Trolls. He has all the sources of every Troll mercenary in the world. If he really wants to take over the town in a blink of an eye, then he has everything we don't have."

"I think I might as well come," said Jazzy. "Pilot may have some unfinished business with me."

"We are coming as well!" declared Poppy, standing up on top of her seat.

"No," said Hickory. "You have to sit this one out."

"What?!"

"Well, to be fair, we have a kingdom to run," said Branch. "And I don't want anything to be between us."

"And even on the possibility that you might fail and be ignorant again," pointed out Bastille.

Hearing this, Charleston quickly whacked Bastille on the stomach with her cane to shut him up. The Indie Troll collapsed onto the floor, apparently defeated to that point.

"No," said Jazzy. "I say that we bring a large number of Trolls over to Pilot now."

"I don't think that is a good idea," said Hickory. "We bring the leaders out of the town, there will be more incidents going around without their protection to the people! And Pilot doesn't like to engage in peaceful treaties like this."

"Then we go to war already," growled Jazzy, her skin already turning red. "Pilot isn't going to stop until he is done for. If we get to him quickly, then we can mitigate the threat."

Branch glared at Jazzy. "Don't do this again."

"You don't know Pilot! He is too dangerous. Petty. Monstrous. Just like how every kind of thing nearly ripped your whole village apart for heaven forbid."

"Your connection to the leader circle also depends on your reputation since three-quarters of the Trolls already know about you," snarled Branch. "You try to get even with Pilot, then someone else might try to get even with all of us." He glared at Hickory. "Especially you, 'Yodeller'."

Hickory stared back, keeping an emotionless look. However, he is nervous because Branch isn't angry at him. He is warning him since he is also a bounty hunter and there might be other mercenaries who know him…and even want him for vengeance.

Bastille gulped a little. He is starting to see Jazzy's point. Despite the previous experience where he failed several times, he feels that it may not be his place. On the other hand, he is a little upset that his vacation in TrollsTopia might have to come to a stop if more criminals pour into the town. This isn't how things are supposed to be. When will the bad things finally end?

Charleston is more willing to agree with Jazzy however. "Did you hear what she said? They won't stop and they will NEVER want to stop. How can we know that not taking action will change things? We did that before. We can do it again!"

"W-What?!" said Bastille. "No way. This is not what we agree to do."

"And how do you agree to just sit back and let everything unfold?!"

"Don't you think that you might be inexperienced for this?" said Hickory, growing a little frustrated. "I am sorry, but this is a job that me and Jazzy should only take."

"We need to fight back," said Jazzy. "Charleton saw my point. Don't you all agree?"

"That would be suicidal to bring all of us in this time," said Poppy.

"If you're not going to lead an army enough to take down Pilot in one day, then I will."

There is a long silence of tension between everyone in the room. All torn on whether Hickory and Jazzy should confront Pilot by themselves or bring everybody to face him. On the bright side, that could mean stopping the rise in future crimes. On the dark side, that might mean things can fall apart when one is away for too long. Poppy and Branch are now willing to sit this one out so that they can watch over TrollsTopia. Hickory clearly doesn't want anyone to be hurt. Jazzy is still in her mindset that everyone needs to gather around in a huge number. Bastille doesn't want to be involved, but Charleston does.

For Finn?

He is already having a headache with Jazzy.

"Jazzy," he said, catching her attention. "Can we talk please?"

"What?" said Jazzy.

"I said, let's. Talk. Now."

Jazzy blinked, a little dumbfounded. She stared at Finn for a while, completely baffled by his look. She is reminded of that time when he called her out of bickering against Poppy the first time. However, this time, he looked like he got onto a side and he doesn't like what Jazzy is proposing. He wants Jazzy to not take the extreme path.

The Chess Master said nothing as she followed Finn out of the door.

Left alone, Hickory gave everyone one last warning.

"I advise you all to let me and Jazzy handle this," he said. "Once you literally cross into Pilot's territory, you don't want to get out of it."

Poppy and Branch stare at each other before nodding in agreement.

"Sorry that I won't be able to stick around here for long, but I got business to attend to."

With that, the Yodel Troll left the pod.

Poppy could only turn to Bastille and Charleston, still shocked over the news and the argument.

"P-Please go back to your house for a rest," she said. "You don't need to be involved for now."

The two could only nod before they left the pod. Charleston is sulking a little at the fact that she isn't included in the end, but she noticed that Bastille was in a hurry and in a tizzy.

Finally alone with Branch, Poppy let herself reveal her vulnerability as she started to hyperventilate slightly. She brushed the bangs out from her head and rubbed a hand through her now-sweaty forehead. She heard Branch stand up and as he asked if she is alright, but she is clearly panicking mentally with the news of criminals planning to attack she never heard before. She anticipated it, but she never thought that there would be a crime lord out there. A leader who can run all the attacks in her town.

And at this moment, she might have to stay to protect her fellow Trolls and have to trust Jazzy and Hickory to take care of the situation. She really wants to help out, but she now knows that she might as well have to stay with what she can handle best at. She can't repeat what happened during the World Tour. She was hoping she could get it under control, but the fear rushed through again.

"Poppy?" asked Branch, snapping his fingers at her. "Poppy?!"

"W-What?" said Poppy, snapping out of her daydream. "Did I do a hickey or something?"

"No, you look…scared."

"I can't believe it is happening already."

Branch nodded. "Yeah. Damn they work fast. Just one simple fight in the bar of Country Trolls and one of them turns out to be what Hickory assumed to be the most 'dangerous mercenary' out there. Though, it's like a small warning."

"This doesn't feel right anymore," said Poppy. "We got some things sorted out, but this is as huge as the time with Bergans and with Barb's World Tour. And we have to stay behind."

"At least we won't lose track of taking care of all of them," said Branch. "It will be only us and our friends and family there. With us around, nothing can tear this town apart, right?"

Poppy stared at Branch with an incredulous look. "Do you think so? We don't know what those criminals plan to do with everyone, especially with the entire town. And I am…worried that they are doing this because they have something to do with the Pop Trolls."

Branch shook his head. "We all know the truth already, but we don't know if that is for sure."

"But won't they also use it as an excuse to crash the party? I know you already got a plan in case things go awry, but after all the stress of handling every single one of the tribes in our village, do you think this new thing will be harder than the last? And you know; the Pop Trolls aren't always built for combat like the others. How do we know that they are not going to try to wipe out the Trolls…planning…making something…out there?"

Branch realized that Poppy is sharing the same fear as he does. He wanted to tell her as well and let them both vent it out. However, he remembered back to what Delta told him. About his fear. It shouldn't be good that both of them keep their heads low.

"Listen to me, Poppy," he said, holding onto her arms in a protective manner. "No one is going to harm any one of us in the end. You know that, right?"

"Yes, but…" started Poppy.

"It has been a quick day, but we know the trouble has started. We now know the problem might rise up here with the increase of crimes and if Hickory is right to suspect that someone is behind all of this, then it must be his and Jazzy's personal duty to stop him. But with us, we can only do what we can do. Our village is our home. TrollsTopia is our home and we must protect it by being here for all of them. While Charleston got the first sighting of a dangerous mercenary, we don't really know what other trouble can spew around the corners. All I know is that we have to be prepared like how they are preparing as well. We can let our fear drive us or inspire us to stop the crimes. And I know you, you know how to get back up again."

Poppy stayed silent for a while. She is surprised that it was Branch who said this out of everyone. He isn't always the one who is idealistic as he is always paranoid and negative. However, he had been more supportive of her and tried his best to give her some good advice. It seemed that he became more aware of the danger, but prepared himself to be ready. He is doing this for her as much as she is for him.

"Do you think we might be able to overcome it?" she asked. She has to make sure she isn't dreaming. "Are we…still capable of solving problems?"

"Nothing, nothing is going to change that," reassured Branch. "Nothing is going to change the two of us."

Poppy felt her cheeks blushing. She felt nothing but gratefulness towards Branch. They must have not lost their touch with each other and still be a good couple. He showed support to her and was willing to stay by her. And there is something implied from his saying of 'two of us'. Most importantly, he is willing to lift her up when it comes to handling TrollsTopia.

"Learn from what we learnt and do our best to protect TrollsTopia," said Branch. "We don't have to face everything all together, but let's do what we have left."

Poppy smiled and gave Branch a gentle hug. For Branch's part, he got a little touched by her. Maybe Delta must be right after all. They went through so much that they could get themselves up on their feet. The crime gangs are still a new thing, but the best they can do is to make sure none of them harm anyone in the coming days. They can go through it again.

Besides, Branch and Poppy got the same goals, so it wouldn't be worthless for Branch for now.

"Do you…think the law enforcers will be able to help out?" asked Poppy as she let go.

Branch thought about it. "It is nearly too late to think about it as we already hired them. Tomorrow will be their first shift and unofficial final training session. But whatever the case, they are ready since they know every cranny and nooky of TrollsTopia."

"I just hope so. I don't want those criminals to be too nasty."

Poppy paused as she remembered something. "Hey, Branch."

"Yeah?" he said.

"Remember about that 'secret weapon' you told me about?"

"...yes?"

"When can you show it to me? Is it done?"

"...it's still in my bunker. It will have to wait since it is stuck there."

"Do you think we should use it?"

Branch considered before snorting. "It is not like we need a monster truck for this."

East Side of Pop Village

"We really need a monster truck for this," said Jazzy. "We have already been here before."

"I am aware of that," said Finn. "But I want you to reflect on what you are doing."

Finn had dragged Jazzy all the way to the east side of Pop Village where they first talked to Bruce Ritardando. Branch managed to clean up the place and reset the traps. However, the damage done still left scars all over the place. The gold dust left behind from the golden grenade stained the grass and there is a crater in the ground. Dirt is regrowing, but it is still there.

Jazzy is already tired. She doesn't need to hear another lecture. "I know what you are going to say already. 'What happened to the Chess Master who helped me'? 'You are a murderer'! 'You might even end up killing yourself!' 'It's something we can't really control or stop.' Bla, bla, bla."

She walked up to Finn who was silently brooding away while wandering around in circles.

"By Jove, I…I know the risks," stated Jazzy. "I know what I am doing. It is just happening now and too late to calm down."

Finn stopped and turned to Jazzy.

"There is…actually something I think I need to emphasise more on from that night," he said quietly. "You are proposing that we all go to war."

"The bigger the numbers, the quicker the threat is over," explained Jazzy as if it was obvious.

"That is why we are here," said Finn, staring at the golden-stained grass. "Do you remember what happened when all of us first met Bruce?"

"I remembered it all."

"Do you remember that he nearly killed us with his bombs?"

Jazzy took a moment to look around at the healing environment. She remembered that night when she, Poppy, Branch, Finn and Val were nearly caught up by the explosions of the golden grenades. While he was caught in the traps, Bruce had his backup plans and managed to do some damage to their surroundings. They could have gotten nearly hurt by the grenades. Branch and Poppy nearly got themself killed when the grenade got too close to them.

"…yes," said Jazzy. " But…what I don't understand is why you are not willing to help out after you have been a victim. We were here. We saw what he tried to do and Charleston also saw what Bruce and the Midnight Hawks tried to do with us."

Finn stared at her. Did she think that they would be able to learn something from that and become an expert? Even during the long gap between today and before?

"I don't have a single symbol to remind me that I will be able to get rid of this problem and I want TrollsTopia to be truly left alone," said Jazzy, feeling tearful. "I'm willing to fight for it, but I need an army."

Here we go again.

"You can't really drag everyone in this problem," said Finn, rubbing his vest uncomfortably. "Not everyone can be able to rise up like this."

"That is their problem," grumbled Jazzy. "They should have grown up by now."

"But it's not yours to try to make them. Like I said, no one can be the Chess Master."

Jazzy stayed silent. Those words got to her once again like how they did. She had been pressuring herself, but this time? She is being reminded that she is pressuring people more to a greater extent.

"Then, what quicker way should everyone choose to stop the rise of crime?" asked Jazzy. "Does it need to be solo or a huge number of people?"

Finn sighed. At this point, he knew that he doesn't exactly have the same ideas as Jazzy and if he just flat-out told her the best thing to do, she might not listen. There is actually one time he let some people down and it is still hurtful today. However, he needs to do this for Jazzy's good. She has to learn from his experience.

He clenched his teeth and tried his best not to cry. To distract himself, he took out his blue dagger. Holding it by the handle, he twirled it around.

"…this is something I wished I learnt long ago," he said. "I…used to drag people a lot in my problems as a kid. I tried to do things right, but I ended up getting people hurt. Not like mad, but…just hurt." He had to stop because he felt his voice cracking a little. "And…I feel bad about it. I had a choice, but…if I hadn't placed people involved, then I wouldn't try to be independent."

Jazzy's worry turned into concern towards her boyfriend. He held his dagger in an awkward position. It is clear that Finn is trying not to break down in tears and needs a second to recompose himself. He must have known that trying to force someone isn't always good.

"You…never try to fix it?" she asked.

"I…I can't face…" Finn tried to explain, but he didn't have the words.

He is unable to say it in the end. He trailed off, looking very close to tears. He couldn't get the words out. He clutched onto his dagger and placed the handle gently on his forehead like a toy, trying not to cry. Realizing that it had traumatized him, Jazzy placed a hand on his shoulder. Not a hug. Just to remind him that she is around.

After a while, Finn sniffed and wiped angry tears from his eyes.

"That battle of mine wasn't that a huge bloody thing," he said sadly. "But your battle is the flame of the barbie. I know that you want to stop Pilot, but…whose life are you willing to sacrifice? Poppy's? Branch's? Charleston's?" He paused when he got to Bastille. "I'm not sure about Bastille's, but…everyone?"

Jazzy thought about it. Despite her desire to stop criminals from entering TrollsTopia, she acknowledged that she might bring innocent lives into a battle. Sacrifices might need to be made, but when doing with one who hasn't been given consent to do so? Not in a growing peaceful town still breathing from past bad memories. She even thought back to what it would mean to Poppy. That meant overwhelming her once again with the responsibility of trying to help everybody. And worse, it would be Jazzy's fault if anybody is killed by Pilot.

No one can make the huge step.

"No one can go up a battle like you do," said Finn, twirling his dagger one last time. "And in numbers, no one can win a war."

He threw the dagger at the ground. At a footstep. A solid message that the sharpest of blades could take down a Troll easily, no matter how durable they might be.

Taking this to heart, Jazzy decided that it should be best not to get several Trolls involved with dealing with Pilot. There shouldn't be bloodshed around. That would risk her purpose in life and her Finn; her boyfriend. Everybody in the village would be counting on her decisions. It would mean a lot to her if she would do anything to protect TrollsTopia.

At least she won't be doing it alone.

"It is only me and Hickory who can do this for now," said Jazzy. "We are bounty hunters. We…know what it would be like when we cross over to Pilot. We'll try to settle the conflict with him. You'll be OK here?"

Finn nodded, crossing his arms. "I'll…be fine. I'm sure of it."

That was a lie. That means him being alone with Bastille and Charleston, and being responsible for them since they are going to stay with him. That would add another burden to him. They might be out the whole day, but he just met them. He still isn't sure about them. They are nice people, but too close for comfort.

"I may not be able to see you," said Jazzy.

"Then…just go and show that you can save my life." muttered Finn. "…OK, that sounds selfish."

"It does."

"J-Just do your own thing. I don't really care."

Jazzy giggled a little, her skin turning back to light red. She went up to Finn and gave him a kiss on the cheek. The Trap Techno Troll looked back, wanting to return it.

"Be safe here as well when I am gone," said Jazzy.

Finn's and Jazzy's Pod

Bastille and Charleston arrived back to their pod where Bastille is already drilling into Charleston for her willingness to join the fight.

"You got to be kidding when you said that you want to go out there and face a crime gang," he said, shaking his head.

"You don't know what I am capable of," said Charleston, pointing her cane at him as if warning him. "And look; at least we won't need to go out."

She wished that Hickory would allow her to, but he didn't look like he was ready for her to be included. Poppy and Branch told her to go back inside. Of course. They are leaders. She isn't part of the leader circle. They get to do the cool things. But at this point, she knew that the danger outside might enhance and endanger her allies and friends.

"I'm…I'm not into this stuff," hesitated Bastille. "I think we should sit out."

"C'mon, Basty!" said Charleston, hopping like a child. "We should help out! Sort out the criminals around here and give them a good taste."

"No way. Remember what happened the last time we tried to help out. We made too many mistakes and it took us long to get everybody to reconcile with each other. I think some of the people we dragged into that mess also have to go through therapy."

Bastille shivered a little with how he got too strong or harsh with Poppy and Branch at certain times. He doesn't want to do that again.

"But wouldn't it be for the better?" asked Charleston with a smile. "That time, we did something great for everyone and that led to our tribes getting along with the main six tribes! Sure some need to recover, but I'm sure they will be fine."

"You even need to recover," pointed out Bastille.

Ouch.

Charleston waved her hand. "S-Sure, whatever. Hear me on this, I didn't tell you that I graduated this year."

"What?" said Bastille. "You…did?"

"Yeah. I was so young, but somehow, I managed to get through all my classes. It was a huge step since I shouldn't be ready, but I had the best idea and convinced my aunt to get through those final exams."

Bastille blinked. Charleston. A girl who hasn't reached 18 graduated from school already?! Her stunning personality doesn't say much about that, but he doesn't expect her to be THAT smart.

Maybe he underestimated her too much.

"You could have crashed from there!" he exclaimed.

"Yeah," said the brown Swing Troll smugly. "But I didn't in the end. So, now that I completed my classes, I have completed the basic requirements of being…a detective!"

A what?

"A…de…tec…tive?" said Bastille slowly.

"Yep!" A toothy smile appeared on Charleston's face.

"You didn't mention it to me before!" said the Indie Troll. "Nobody knows about you being a detective, right?"

"Well…that is actually kind of a lie." Charleston chuckled nervously for needing to tell the truth. "I don't really have a legal detective service quiet yet. I'm still working on it."

Bastille doesn't really expect Charleston to take classes of criminology and investigate crime scenes. He isn't sure she would be the type of person who would observe after an incident. She would jump right into it.

"…right," he said. "So…you're going out there and kicking a lot of arse right there."

"You bet!" said Charleston, raising her cane in the air. "You should come along as well."

"I'm…sorry, mate," explained Bastille. "But I'm not in the mood."

This caught Charleston by surprise. This wasn't the collected and cool guy she knew before.

"What? Why?" she said.

"…honestly," admitted Bastille. "I was hoping that we can just simmer down for a nice vacation. This isn't what I really plan to do."

"But, Bastille, Don't you think it should be right to help the people out? I need a partner. You know, I was hoping you would want to come along."

The Indie Troll only shook his head. "No promises."

"But you have cool things!" protested Charleston. "You know the inside out of the mainland! You explored the world and you have great knowledge of every Troll around here."

Bastille rolled his eyes. "I told you already. The only criminals I met are the bounty hunters we ran into. And I mostly outrun monsters rather than fighting criminals."

"Adventurers have advantages."

The Indie Troll let out a mock laugh. "Well, this one doesn't when it comes to sorting out criminals, mercenaries and not to mention, murderers. Jazzy is right, you know. I'm not fit enough and I don't want to get involved. I'm tired."

"It would be fun to take down several bad guys."

"Yeah, but I don't think I want to get involved with others. It shouldn't be good now to fight since we just settled in."

Charleston narrowed her eyes. "So are you saying we just get steamrolled by them?"

"No. It's…it's too…" Bastille wanted to give Charleston a good reason to not include him, but he isn't able to get a good reason out for her. "No matter if I say it's too dangerous, you're just going to jump in. I…am not in."

Charleston stood there for a moment. Again, she couldn't believe that he would want to stay out of this. He would be cool to help anybody, so what happened to his loyalty? She should have guessed. He was all dressed up for a nice holiday without worries and only prepared to mix in with the other Trolls in town.

He reminded her to play nice with the others, so why can't he?

"Bastille, I hate to tell you this," she said finally, approaching him. "Look…I…please, upon my word, you are my friend, Bastille. I…know that this is unnecessary for you at the moment, but…just sitting back isn't going to make anything better or make you a better person. Jazzy told her; what if a criminal barges in and tries to kill any of us while you rest around?"

Bastille's eyes widened a little. Both of them knew very well of the implied threat Jazzy said to them.

"Well, you're in luck, because the next morning, if you find a crazy stranger right on top of you with a knife, you are going to realize that this ain't a dream and you are a part of the criminal cycle. Nothing is going to help you if you do not know what you are doing. This ain't like a 'saving-the-day' mission. It's a free-for-all now since it is happening quietly in this town. Imposters among us, backstabbers ready. No matter how big you are, you might have to know who is acting small because if you find yourself killed, then you're going to wonder why you didn't pick up training on stranger danger…"

Bastille remembered how close Jazzy was and her warning cut the edge really deeply for him. He didn't like it and he didn't like being told off for being blissfully oblivious to the impending danger. He wanted some rest, but are they questioning his competence?

"You know when to fold, but now may not be the right time if more criminals are going to come into TrollsTopia," explained Charleston, looking dead serious. "What makes you think that they won't come to us? We can't just stay there and expect them to leave us alone. We got to tell them off to leave us alone and let them know that."

She knew that she would be intruding on Bastille, but he shouldn't be lazy in a time like this. She paused again before putting a confident expression.

"You are my friend, Bastille, and you are the right choice for being my partner. I don't know who else would be, but you are the closest thing I ever know as the person who has an ace up their sleeve. Maybe those skills are the key to stop all of those criminals coming in. Are you in or not?"

Bastille stared at her back. The two stared at each other, trying to read each other's minds. The Indie Troll is about to protest when he remembers back to how he gave her some advice, knowing that he wouldn't be able to solve all of Charleston's problems.

He remembered how he used to try to be an active participant during the World Tour with helping his friends out despite his tendencies. Even though his words were really unhelpful, he did try his best to contribute good enough and it seemed to have paid off in the end. His experiences must have helped, right?

What hit him harder was that he had been growing tired and wanting the glory days to return. He finally has a new home, a new place, a new group to stay with and some new friends here and there. But it seems that he has to EARN it in the end to get what he wants. Despite feeling burnt out, he realized that he doesn't want to miss out on all of the action.

He wants to feel like him again.

He just hopes that Charleston still takes his words previously to heart because he doesn't want to get onto the bad side of things.

"You know, you should try to give some people a chance. I mean, there will be other Trolls who are intimidating as the Rock Trolls."

The Indie Troll hoped that the ones they will be facing against are not innocent.

"...OK," he whispered, nearly not audible.

Charleston is already jumping around like confetti flying everywhere.

"ALRIGHT! YIPPEE!" she cheered. "This is going to be fun! We'll be the most baddest crime-stoppers in history!"

"Please don't tell me we're…going to be vigilantes?" asked Bastille.

"In a way, yes!" Charleston checked the time on her clock. "Oh. It's bedtime already. We're gonna need it!"

With a quick 'goodnight' and a peck on the forehead, Charleston raced off to the bathroom to get clean. Bastille could only stand in his spot when it hit him what he will be actually doing in the next few days. On the plus side, he would get to unleash his adventurous side from time to time. He would be right back in the rhythm. On the minus side, he would need to get caught up with all of the coming mayhem and try not to die. It might be badder than staying back with the other Indie Trolls. Something told him that he has no idea what else he would have to manage.

"This is going to be a LONG vacation," he summarized, placing his hands on his hips.

Unknown Location

It actually took longer for the Midnight Hawks and Grunge to return to one of their hideouts. Because they alerted a lot of people at Country Corral, it made things harder for them to blend in the crowd due to their appearances. Nearly the entire town was covered in bright lights in search of the wanted criminals, but they got away quickly. Eventually, Grunge led them to a secluded area in the underground where nobody would see them.

Once past the entrance, the Midnight Hawks are first greeted to a makeshift bunker. It isn't really the best looking, but at least it is still holding up. There are wooden planks nailed everywhere and some formed arcs to hold up the dirt. One thing that appeared odd is that there are several lights all around to light up the place. The Midnight Hawks expect torches, but the lights around look like the Christmas lights you would see as part of a Christmas mall.

They finally stopped by at a large circular room that has a really high ceiling. There are several lights hanging all around with tables, mattresses and paperworks all over the floor. The said paperworks seem to be blueprints, maps and notes of TrollsTopia. Some of them seemed to be for security locks and secret rooms while others seemed to be letters.

"Wow, sick place," commented Rhea.

"It looks like it is going to fall, don't you think?" asked Chestnut, slightly worried.

"Don't worry," reassured Bruce with a cocky smirk. "Grunge built this all by himself. He must have known how to construct something as massive as this."

"I doubt it," said Riptide, a little unconvinced. "He came here without a team."

"Hold on," said Chestnut. "I don't think we should say it to the mercenary himself."

Bruce just rolled his eyes. "Eh. We're bad guys. Not like anyone will care here."

However, there is one mercenary in the room who cared about their previous mission.

"Bruce," he said. "I want to talk with you."

Bruce isn't fazed by the deep voice of the armored Troll. "Alright then. Keep an eye out, Midnight Hawks!"

With that, the two lead mercenaries make their way to one of the small private rooms to have a conversation. Bruce is actually slightly excited that he gets to talk with Grunge face-to-face again. The first and last time is when he escaped TrollsTopia and found him wandering around the place. Sure, Grunge can be too serious, but Bruce found him fun to annoy. And of course, Bruce didn't mind about his troubling actions before.

As soon as the two closed the door, the three Midnight Hawks have all the time to talk amongst themselves in secret.

Chestnut is the first to raise her voice. "Do you think that teaming up with him is a good idea?"

"Oh, it IS definitely a good idea," said Riptide confidently. "Bruce is smart enough to know who to play with."

"I think Grunge wants us to take things seriously because technically, you were fooling around and screwing the job up," said Rhea flatly.

"Oh, darn it, Rhea," hissed the black Techno Troll. "I was doing great at my job!"

"You weren't able to punch one guy out," teased Chestnut. She giggled when Riptide gave her a glare. "The look on your face now!"

"Ergh…since when did you learn how to punch out a guy so quickly?" groaned Riptide.
"Did you learn that from the desert?"

"I GREW up in the desert, so yes."

Chestnut looked back at the door. "I just hope Grunge won't have our heads if he killed Bruce."

"It is just the three of us," said Rhea.

"But he can take down an entire army when he wants to."

"You think so?" asked Riptide. "His armor looks fake."

What those three are unaware of is how reckless and disobedient Bruce can be towards Grunge at times. The latter is scolding him for how long he dragged his first task at TrollsTopia, unpleased by the fact that they lost to a winning battle.

"Ritardando," growled Grunge, his back facing Bruce. "You have just one job and you nearly failed in it."

Bruce is completely calm throughout all of this, sitting back on an office table.

"The cops already got the Gulf Diggers," he said. "That means they are out of the park, right?"

"May I ask you why you got sidetracked and nearly got you and your comrades caught?" said Grunge, shaking a fist.

"Hey! Not my fault," growled Bruce. "Blame the rose-rusted fire match and her loony heat seeker for nearly taking us down in that explosion."

"I'm asking for answers, not excuses," said Grunge, turning around. "You are not really taking this seriously enough. Even though we did get them now behind bars, it still doesn't take away the fact that I have to come over because you all took too long."

"You even revealed yourself," pointed out Bruce, pointing a finger at Grunge. "You're also to blame for coming over and thinking we are not worthy enough. You even humiliated yourself like a mother!"

Grunge growled, shaking his head. He walked slowly towards Bruce, his stomps sounding robotic due to his armored boots. Without a warning, he grabbed Bruce by the neck and lifted him towards his face. The Classical Troll's nose nearly touched the mask.

"Do I need to remind you who you are talking to and considering towards?" threatened Grunge.

"Intimidation. Really?" grumbled Bruce, unfazed. "C'mon, Mister. You might have all the contacts to the mercenaries and criminals in the world, but you don't want to waste your new rising rookie."

"Maybe I will after today's incident."

Bruce squeaked a little as Grunge tightened his grip. OK, maybe not is not the time to press any buttons. Grunge had a plan and he screwed it up a little. The Classical Troll thought about it before coming up with a dare.

"Go ahead then," he mocked, placing a hand onto Grunge's hand but it appeared to be mocking than necessary. "Kill me off. You know the deal from before and even if you discard it, we may still have ties with other people. Who knows if they choose to try to avenge us by hunting you down and that adds a new burden to you. And besides, we're a nice addition. Without us, you don't have any other close criminals who know the main six tribes from the outside."

The two mercenary leaders glared at each other all while Bruce is held by the throat. Grunge considered what Bruce said. He had a point. He didn't ask the Midnight Hawks if they have relatives or other ties to people, even those who might know about their deal with him. Killing them now would be completely pointless.

Finally, Grunge gave Bruce a nod and let go of Bruce, seeming none the worse for wear.

"Consider yourself lucky," snarled Grunge firmly. "But I am considering asking Pilot for back-ups."

Bruce just laughed. "It's already too late, sir. The other criminals should be pouring into the village by now. With their blunder and noise, it will give us good timing to execute your plans while they are distracted."

"Get some rest. I'll give you an update soon."

"Oh, sure you do," said Bruce.

Rolling his eyes behind the mask, Grunge grabbed Bruce by the arm and pulled him over to the door.

"And erm, just to note," said Bruce casually. "The Midnight Hawks, we're an independent company now. I am pleased that you hired us, but right after your plan, we can go on our own. You can still call us if you need back-up of your own-"

But Grunge isn't having any of it, slamming the door right in front of his face. Bruce took it as a sign that this conversation is over.

With a disappointed sigh, he turned around to face his three teammates.

"Do you think that Grunge is really as edgy as he looks?" he asked.

"But we have a slick as hell edgy look!" said Riptide.

"You can't exactly act edgy, dude," said Rhea. "You could barely even taste the powder of coffee!"

"Shut up. I like to see how you try being under the sun. Oh wait, you hate the heat. How ironic!"

"Let's not fight over who's the edgiest," said Bruce, waving his hands playfully. "Doesn't matter. Doesn't matter! It's just that I think our knight in sour armor cuts the edge too deep, don't you think? What a grouch."

Chestnut stared at Bruce for a while. She wished that he didn't make a deal with that devil. They could have been better on their own, but funds for their own new business are tight, so yeah. Judging by the random whacks in the room and Grunge silently kicking Bruce out of his room, either one of them is going to tip Grunge right at the worst end ever.

"He's not going to make it," said Chestnut flatly to Rhea.

Rhea couldn't help but nod as well.

Bruce smirked twisted in cockiness. "Oh, so it's an edgy contest now!"

"Ah crap," said Chestnut, face-palming with both hands. "He heard it! Don't get too competent!"

AN: Just wait until all the criminals come in. It's going to be a sausage fest.

The scenes where the characters have to convince each other to gain the confidence to rise up or realize their mistakes takes inspirations from the Netflix show Arcane, the book series The Day My Bum Went Psycho and Spider Man: Into the Spider Verse. However, I tried to make it feel real and relatable as the establishing moments for these characters.

I had a lot of fun writing about Hickory being included with Branch and Poppy.

The cherry on top is the Midnight Hawks. Praises to MasterClass60 for introducing them to me again. This is not yet finished as there is still more to see from them! And they didn't get to chat properly together as a group!

Alright! So far, we reached '1597' views for this story and I like to thank H3LLFIREIIOS and dromerosonic777 for following this story along with the latter for reviewing the story. We are wrap up the first episode of the story and this establish how I want this story to go.

So, in the next story, Jazzy and Hickory make their way to Pilot's secret hideout and found out many new things. Meanwhile, Bastille, Charleston and Finn try to face the first wave of criminals. And Poppy and Branch settle on training their new law enforcers with Branch encountering...new things of course.

And for those who follow dromerosonic777, you'll be surprised with what he will also serve to the table!

Thanks for reading this chapter! If you enjoy this story, be sure to follow or favorite this story, so you can get updates about this story. Make sure to review this chapter on what you think about this chapter. I'm OK of hearing improvements from you (please no flames). However, it will take me a while to get the next chapter up due to exam study. Any questions, please ask me through PMs.

Until next time, keep on rocking!