Chapter 19~ Finally There Is A Plot. . .Nevermind
Captain Augustus Black leaned back in his desk chair, holding the newspaper between his hands. His bright green eyes moved quickly across the page, a scowl on his face as he took in the contents of the page. The lights of the office glinted dramatically off his bald head from where he sat, illuminating his serious face.
"Captain Black, sir?" asked a voice from outside the office. Captain Black frowned, and his eyes narrowed. Standing at the door was a new detective, Detective Preston. Preston was a serious young man, who had just been transferred from the extremely tightly managed Section 15, and he knew about obeying orders. He had been told that no one was ever to disturb Black while he was reading the paper. But he also knew when things were too important for the Section head to not know about.
"Morning, Detective," grunted Black, spinning around in his desk chair. "I know you're new, but you do know my rules regarding my morning paper?"
Preston saluted, standing perfectly straight before Black. "Yes, sir, Captain Black, but I thought you might want to see this."
Captain Black sighed, his brow wrinkling. Finally, his responsibilities as section captain took over. "Wait just one second, Preston." He folded the paper in half and lay it on his desk. Then, he stood up, and put on his long trench coat over his red sweater. Preston stood obediently outside, until Captain Black's paper caught his eye. "Sir?" he asked in disbelief. "You're reading. . .comics?"
"Yep," said Captain Black sternly. "I read them every morning, each and every one. Except in emergencies, as I certainly hope this is."
"B-but. . .you tell people not to disturb you. . .just so you can read the comics? It seems just a bit. . ." Preston remembered his discipline, and stopped, but Captain Black met him squarely in the eye with a scowl.
"Listen up, detective," he said seriously. "You may mock them now, but my knowledge of Mary Worth has saved my life in more than one situation. There may come a day when you'll wish you'd never mocked the comics. Now, what does this important thing pertain to?"
"I believe it may have something to do with the Chans," said Preston. Captain Black instantly forgot about Mary Worth. The Chans were his top priority right now. Just over a day ago now, Jackie had called him telling him that he needed the quickest possible flight back to San Francisco, and to keep on eye on the statue. Jackie knew better than to discuss Section business or Shendu over the phone, but it was obvious to Captain Black which statue was meant, and that something big was happening. And then. . .Jackie's plane had gone down in the Pacific. He had sent his best agents in to find any trace off the Chans, and he knew that they must have made it out alive. They had to have, because he simply wasn't ready to accept any other possibilities. Preston and Black walked through the Section halls as they spoke, at arriving Preston's desk.
"Have you found them?" he asked eagerly. "Make sure they're all there. There were seven, you know, including two kids. . ."
"We've found no trace of the Chans," said Preston. He noticed Captain Black's disappointment, but this was business. "Parts of the plane have turned up, but so far, no survivors or corpses. However, the aircraft appeared to have been blasted with some sort of torpedo. It's been smashed as though a powerful object tore through it, and there is damage that couldn't have merely been done on impact."
"I knew it," said Captain Black softly, his fists clenching. "I knew it was no accident. We must find out who is responsible."
"I believe we have a suspect," said Preston. "Some unusual data has turned up that simply cannot be coincidental. It looks to me that the plane was destroyed not for the purpose of silencing him, but instead as a tool of vengeance."
"What!" exclaimed Captain Black. "Revenge? Why do you say that?" His eyes narrowed. Jackie was a very good man. It was not easy for him to make enemies. The ones he did have he had because of his work with Black. If the Chans had been killed because of Jackie's work with Section 13. . .Blacks lips set in a grimace. "What's your evidence, Preston?"
Preston sighed and turned to his desk. "Sir, using DNA tests and the latest tracking equipment, we have managed to trace one, or possibly two, people who were present in the crash. The first DNA test displayed results belonging to a female, Chinese descent, between the ages of 8 and 13."
Black's eyes widened, and he quickly turned to Preston. "You don't think it's. . ." He left the question unfinished, but his intention was obvious. Preston nodded slowly.
"We are running further tests as we speak, but our scientists are 78% sure that the DNA belongs to Jade Chan. We have traced her DNA from the crash site to an island off Australia where a portion of the cabin turned up, to an island off the coast of Los Angeles. Whether she is alive or dead is unknown." Black's face fell at this news, but Preston continued. "What is troubling is the fact that Jade was not alone, but certainly not with a member of her family. DNA tests here were inconclusive- the DNA sample we took from the plane could be recognized as female, but showed traits more recognizable in aquatic creatures than humans. We don't understand this glitch, but it may have been caused by some sort of device to confuse tests such as ours. We can recognize very similar DNA on Catalina Island, and it appears very human."
Black nodded, concerned for the girl's safety. He cared about Jade just as much as his friend Jackie. She was a troublemaker and a handful, that was for sure, but she was also a very good, sweet girl and he would hate for anything to happen to her. "Do you have any idea who these people might be?" he asked seriously.
Preston sighed and played his trump card. "Just one. Research in the area shows that Jade Chan, the inconclusive DNA test, and several others boarded a boat headed for Los Angeles harbor. Here is their waiver."
The copied slip of paper was gripped between Black's large, rough hands. He read it seriously, then his eyes narrowed and his jaw clenched. He put the paper in his pocket, his hand shaking with rage. Finally, he spoke just one word, echoing what was written on the piece of paper. "Valmont," he muttered, and then stormed off down the halls.
***
A gaping hole in the wall opened, and an armored truck backed up inside. Guards stood on either side of the truck, guns ready to fire at any unauthorized movement. The hole closed up, and the truck rolled to a stop. The guards all positioned their rifles on the truck door. It opened, and several other guards stepped out. In their midst was a British man in his thirties with long, white blonde hair, an orange prison uniform, and handcuffs. He was led down the corridors to a small, dark room, without windows and having bars on the doors.
A small smile crossed his lips as Captain Black paced the corridor, a glare set on his face. "Ah, Black. I thought this little summons was your work. Now, whatever could I have done to warrant this business."
"I don't have time for your games, Valmont," said Black in a business like tone. "Where are they? How did you wreck the plane?"
Valmont yawned, knowing how much this was distressing his enemy. "I really don't know what you mean, Black. Can we make this quick? I'm missing prison movie night, and I do love that Harry Potter," he said with a patronizing smirk.
Black growled, and even Valmont looked slightly concerned. Obviously he hadn't been kidding when he had said he didn't have time for games. Pressing the barrel of his gun against Valmont's temple, he said in a low, dangerous voice "Where are the Chans?"
Valmont's eyes widened, and a grin spread across his lips. "Ah, so that's what this little game is about," he said silkily. "Someone has kidnapped poor Jackie Chan, and now you are blaming me. I must be cleverer than I look, to have executed all of this from my prison cell."
"I know your enforcers are still on the loose, Valmont, and I know they would never have come up with this themselves. Plus, I have proof. Does this look familiar?" snarled Black, showing Valmont the waiver bearing his name.
"Hmm," said Valmont sarcastically. "Well, then, obviously I am responsible. After all, if I were attempting to kidnap Chan and escape your agents, I would certainly sign my real name."
"This is one of your little practical jokes, Valmont. I know your style. It's just the same as when you nearly killed me, and then were so kind as to send flowers to my hospital ward to infuriate Jackie," Black muttered.
Valmont frowned. "And it's completely impossible that someone else would've signed my name to incriminate me. I'll admit it may be my style, but unfortunately, it is not my signature. Check the court records if you wish."
Black knew he wouldn't have to. He felt like an idiot. He had been so ready to believe that it was Valmont who hurt his friend that he ignored the obvious answer. Jade had been captured by someone who knew that Black's suspicion would easily fall on Valmont.
There were a series of rings to the tune of the Mission Impossible theme song. Valmont smirked, but Black, unabashed, answered it. "Black," he said gruffly. Then, his eyes widened slightly, and he stared at his phone, as if unsure this wasn't an elaborate prank. "Are you sure?" he asked, then nodded seriously. "Alright. Prepare our agents to be jetted to Los Angeles." With that, he closed the phone, and turned to Valmont. "Don't think I've forgotten about you. You're still my prime suspect." He dashed off down the halls.
"Oh, well," muttered Valmont. "I guess I'll never find out what happens to those poor little wizards." He slouched back in his cell, bored. After a few minutes, a cart stocked with cleaning supplies came into the room. It was driven by three very ugly women in baggy dresses, sanitary masks, and wearing scarves over their heads.
"Cleaning service," said one of them in a high pitched voice. Then, they proceeded to check every cell, noting that all except Valmont's were empty. Valmont narrowed his eyes. Something wasn't quite right here. His suspicions were proven right when the first maid pulled out a laser and cut through the lock. Then, the second and third maid grabbed Valmont under the armpits and pulled him out of the cell.
"Excuse me!" he said indignantly. "What is going on?" The maids set him down, and he brushed off his uniform with great dignity. "I'm beginning to doubt this is a cleaning service," he said dryly.
The maids grinned at him, and removed their masks. A satisfied smirk spread across Valmont's face as the first 'maid' responded "You got that right, Big V."
"What are you gentlemen doing here?" Valmont coolly asked of his three enforcers, obviously pleased with them for once.
"Well," said the first maid, the red-haired enforcer Finn, "We've tried chi wizards, demons, and even the Chans," he said, looking disgusted at the last.
"But we just haven't found any work as satisfying as our work with the Dark Hand," quipped the second maid, the small, skinny enforcer called Chow.
"Aww, that rhymes!" added the third enforcer, the slightly dull-witted Ratso, with a grin. "It's true, too."
"When we were with the Dark Hand, we were never turned into Dark Chi Warriors or made to wear shock cuffs," said Finn, obvious gratitude in his voice. "And you even tried to save us from that scary old chi dude."
"Plus, we got excellent dental," added Chow thoughtfully. The other two enforcers nodded in agreement with this.
"And you were so cute when you were little!" said Ratso in glee.
"So, how exactly do you plan to get me out?" asked Valmont, raising an eyebrow. The three enforcers grinned, and Finn patted the laundry cart invitingly.
"Hop on in, V. We'll roll you out," he said. Valmont stared at the dirty laundry cart in horror. Although he was not wearing his Armani suit, thankfully, he was certainly not about to crouch about in an old laundry basket with Black's undergarments. He had his pride.
"That's absolutely disgusting. I refuse to ride in there," he said simply. Finn, Ratso, and Chow shrugged.
"Well, I guess you could dress up like a maid, and Ratso could ride in the cart," suggested Finn. "He doesn't mind."
Valmont considered this. Wearing women's clothes, even in an attempt to escape, did not appeal to him. Some of his fellow crime lords had been getting ideas about Valmont, and whether or not they were true, it was not a reputation he needed to have. Gossip had spread about his "sorcerer's gown," and if anyone were ever to find out he had worn a dress, he would lose the little respect he still had in the underworld.
"I have a better idea," said Valmont shortly. "When I spoke to Black, he had just summoned all of his agents to Los Angeles. I'm prepared to bet that no one will even notice if we just slip out."
"Fair enough," agreed Finn. "After all, no one noticed when we slipped in wearing maids outfits even though Section 13 doesn't actually have maids. They even didn't notice when Ratso shouted 'It's Captain Black! Run! Oh, wait, sorry, it's just another agent' aloud."
Valmont rolled his eyes. He remembered now why he had been so exasperated with his enforcers while they had worked for him. But, he reminded himself, good help was hard to find, and you couldn't beat their loyalty. Although annoying, Finn, Ratso, and Chow were worth keeping around. He'd just have to find a fourth, competent enforcer to do what the other three weren't capable of. Tohru had done this job well, but he was unavailable. Perhaps Hak Foo would still fight for him?
Valmont put these thoughts aside and led the way through Section 13, despite not actually knowing where he was going. His three enforcers obediently followed. He had gotten far without seeing any agents, and was sure he'd find the exit soon enough. That was, until he heard the low whisper of a painfully familiar voice.
"Valmont?" hissed the voice. Valmont winced and rubbed his temple. The voice gave him a headache. He had hoped, apparently beyond hope, that he would never have to hear that horrible, complaining, commanding voice ever again. He had been a slave to it for months, and he hated the very sound of it. "Valmont, come in here," spoke the voice. Valmont turned. He was so used to not being able to stop the voice's commands that he simply had to obey.
The voice came from within a huge vault before him, the door left, for some reason, wide open. He'd been in here once before, briefly, when Chan's niece had taken the fortress as her palace. But he was disappointed to see that there were no talismans in here now. He was even more disappointed to see a familiar golden statue bound in a cell.
"Shendu," Valmont acknowledged with a groan. "Of course you're here," he said in annoyance. "Of course." Valmont's life had been heading rapidly downhill since the day he met Shendu, and no matter what he did, Shendu would never be gone from his life for good.
"Ah, Valmont, I am very pleased to see you," the draconian statue hissed, eyes flashing red. "I would like to ask you to do me a service."
Valmont frowned. "And why exactly, Shendu, should I help you?" He wanted to walk out of the room, but Shendu had some strange hold on him, and he found he couldn't leave.
"You will find, Valmont, that if you help me, it will be very worth your while," said Shendu, and Valmont could hear the sneer in his voice.
"Is that so, Shendu?" asked Valmont silkily. "Is this reward anything like the treasure of Chin Shi Huang?"
The strange sounds emanating from Shendu sounded almost like a chuckle. "You have your doubts. Listen to me, Valmont. My siblings have been awakened. I can feel their presence. And even more. . .darker creatures are stirring. You will want powerful friends, Valmont, and I am a very powerful friend indeed."
Valmont paused at this, considering. He didn't know about demons and dark stirrings, but after many years as leader of the top crime syndicate in the world, he knew about the advantage of good alliances. Shendu had proven, of course, that Valmont couldn't trust him, but as long as Shendu's favor didn't put him at too great a disadvantage, it mattered very little. "What exactly do you want me to do?" he asked, a note of skepticism in his voice.
Shendu's tone told of a smirk. "I knew you would come around," he responded.
"I haven't agreed yet," said Valmont pridefully.
"I merely wish you to alert my siblings to my presence here in Section 13. They obviously do not know where I am, and I will require their skills for my freedom. The old chi wizard has put some sort of spell on my statue, so to break free I will need either both the talismans and dragon's teeth, or a counter spell performed by my brothers and sisters." Shendu hissed in distaste against the chi wizard who had imprisoned him. "I do not know where they are, merely somewhere to the southeast of here. But I'm sure they will not be difficult to find."
Valmont smiled to himself, fairly sure he knew where Shendu's siblings would be. All of Section 13 wasn't summoned to a city without very good reason. "Perhaps I will help you, then. But why exactly should I risk myself and my men among your siblings? How can I be sure you'll keep your promises?"
Shendu hissed softly. "You have little choice. I may not possess many of my former powers, and even my Shadowkahn minions have been taken from me." He hissed in disgust. "However, you may find I still have some tricks left. I urge you to attempt to run, Valmont. I know you have been trying to leave, but you cannot. As you were my host for nearly a year, I still possess a great level of control over you when we meet in person. You may be able to resist me for awhile, but whether or not you help, my siblings will eventually free me."
Damn, thought Valmont. Shendu was right. He found his legs may as well have been glued to the floor for all that he could escape.
Shendu must have known Valmont's concern, because his voice had an added smirk to it. "Of course, if you are useful to me, I will release you from your bonds and give the Dark Hand a permanent place in our new world order.
"Whatever you say, Shendu," said Valmont annoyedly, knowing he had lost his bargaining edge and merely had to go along with the dragon's wishes. "Finn, Ratso, Chow, there's been a change of planes. What are our contacts in Los Angeles?"
"Yes. . ." hissed Shendu softly.
At that moment, seven jets flew low in the sky, over a thick cloud cover. They were all black except for an American flag insignia on the tail and the number 13 below it. One by one, they landed in the hills surrounding the city of Los Angeles. Captain Black stepped out of his plane, speechless at the sight that lay before him.
Author's Note~ *wince* I know, that was an incredibly cruel place to end the chapter. Especially when I promised a battle in this chapter. I truly meant to. . .that "Nevermind" wasn't originally on the chapter title. But I went off an a completely random seven page Valmont tangent. He wasn't even originally going to be in the story except for the cameo earlier on. In case any of you were wondering, Valmont was put in jail somewhere in the first 5 chapters of this story. Finn, Ratso, Chow, & Hak Foo were also caught, but they had escaped. If there's one thing those guys are good at, it's escapes.
But no complaints! Valmont is cool, and I actually really enjoyed this chapter. It's always nice to shift perspective a little bit. Hope Valmont and his enforcers weren't too OOC. Plus, I had to have this Shendu sub plot in the story somehow. Although it's not very important.
Sorry this story was late, but I couldn't put it up because I was spending Spring Break in San Francisco! ^_^ It was a JCA enthusiast's dream come true. I'm actually typing in the San Francisco airport as we speak. I visited Chinatown and looked (in vain, although I know it is somewhere!) for Uncle's Rare Finds, then started checking out random phone booths for Section 13 access. I didn't even find Valmont. :( But it was so fun! I love this city, it's so beautiful. Not all sunshine as so many TV Shows and movies would have you expect, but this great big city in the middle of these beautiful green hills and loads of water. We don't get green much in San Diego, since it gets so little rain. I planned to take pictures of all the JCA related landmarks I could find, but we forgot the digital camera. . Still, good times. :D
Heeheehee. . .I just downloaded desktop Stitch. If you give him coffee, he goes crazy and eats your documents. I'm easily amused. If you squirt him, he acts all good. Aww! Now he's surfings and dressing up like Elvis.
*cough* Yes, yes, posting the story. I'm getting there.
Scottishwolf- I wish I could take credit for spiffilicious, but that word was popularized by my friend, Spooji. She comes up with all of my odd language. I most definitely agree with you on the masks, plus I'm not exactly a Tarekudo fan. I, too, miss the Pan Ku days. Demons and talismans were the height of JCA, although I've always liked those random season 2 episodes that had nothing to do with demons or talismans, or even occasionally the dark hand.
Souma Kagura- Thank you for clearing the Scooby thing up for me, I was getting worried. I actually thought the chapter was funny too, but I was just frustrated that the plot hasn't been advancing forward. I love this chapter, although it, too, is slightly pointless.
ShadowElfBard- The head creeped you out too, did it? I liked that episode, but it was pretty weird. As for Drago, I too was confused, but I'm glad for that confusion. It gave me the idea for the plot of the sequel to this fic, which I really must write since this one will leave so much unsolved. Although info on TV Tome about Season 5 promises to make this fic and the sequel very AU. Oh, well. The disguises were fun. Okay, I was a big Scooby fan when I was younger, but even the small child in me is repulsed by the Kids WB modern day version. The only thing redeeming about that show was its cheesiness and its era. . .the modern attempt to make Scooby cool is sickening. Scooby wasn't that great an idea, and that's why it was so popular- it embraced it's badness. *sigh* Why won't Kids WB understand?
DanMat- Wow. That sounds like a pretty cool idea. I especially wonder about Parry. He interests me. For one thing, the name doesn't sound very Chinese. How long has he lived in America, does he know chi magic, and if so, where did he learn it? What will Gantu's role be in the story if he doesn't work for Hamsterviel? I'd really like to read this, so I hope you get writing. ^_^ Oh, and you mentioned Ratso & Finn. Where's Chow?
VampireNaomi- Thank you very much for your review of my story, A Late Night Cup of Tea. It was great fun to get a review over there from a writer I know from JCA and who's opinion I respect so much. I know what you mean about Riddle. I've long wanted to write a Riddle fic, but I've yet to have an idea, plus I fear I'll get the character wrong or give into too many Riddle clichés. I loved Xiao Fung's disguise, too. Living in Southern California, I see too many hapless tourists who pack as though they're heading to the tropics. It's actually quite cool here, contrary to popular belief.
Yu Mutuo- Sorry this update wasn't very soon. . I've been bad about that lately, and it doesn't look as though it's getting better. But I see the light at the end of the tunnel. . .only eight more weeks of school. Wow. . .that's only four more chapters until summer. Freaky.
Thanks for your patience, people. I'm pretending I updated last weekend with this Thursday night update, but chances are I'll still be late with the next one which technically should be up next weekend, since I'm going (again) out of town. I've become a social person, which is weird for me.
Oh. . .Chin Shi Huang, is that right? The treasure Valmont is promised by Shendu as a reward for his help in Season 1? Got it off a fansite.
Captain Augustus Black leaned back in his desk chair, holding the newspaper between his hands. His bright green eyes moved quickly across the page, a scowl on his face as he took in the contents of the page. The lights of the office glinted dramatically off his bald head from where he sat, illuminating his serious face.
"Captain Black, sir?" asked a voice from outside the office. Captain Black frowned, and his eyes narrowed. Standing at the door was a new detective, Detective Preston. Preston was a serious young man, who had just been transferred from the extremely tightly managed Section 15, and he knew about obeying orders. He had been told that no one was ever to disturb Black while he was reading the paper. But he also knew when things were too important for the Section head to not know about.
"Morning, Detective," grunted Black, spinning around in his desk chair. "I know you're new, but you do know my rules regarding my morning paper?"
Preston saluted, standing perfectly straight before Black. "Yes, sir, Captain Black, but I thought you might want to see this."
Captain Black sighed, his brow wrinkling. Finally, his responsibilities as section captain took over. "Wait just one second, Preston." He folded the paper in half and lay it on his desk. Then, he stood up, and put on his long trench coat over his red sweater. Preston stood obediently outside, until Captain Black's paper caught his eye. "Sir?" he asked in disbelief. "You're reading. . .comics?"
"Yep," said Captain Black sternly. "I read them every morning, each and every one. Except in emergencies, as I certainly hope this is."
"B-but. . .you tell people not to disturb you. . .just so you can read the comics? It seems just a bit. . ." Preston remembered his discipline, and stopped, but Captain Black met him squarely in the eye with a scowl.
"Listen up, detective," he said seriously. "You may mock them now, but my knowledge of Mary Worth has saved my life in more than one situation. There may come a day when you'll wish you'd never mocked the comics. Now, what does this important thing pertain to?"
"I believe it may have something to do with the Chans," said Preston. Captain Black instantly forgot about Mary Worth. The Chans were his top priority right now. Just over a day ago now, Jackie had called him telling him that he needed the quickest possible flight back to San Francisco, and to keep on eye on the statue. Jackie knew better than to discuss Section business or Shendu over the phone, but it was obvious to Captain Black which statue was meant, and that something big was happening. And then. . .Jackie's plane had gone down in the Pacific. He had sent his best agents in to find any trace off the Chans, and he knew that they must have made it out alive. They had to have, because he simply wasn't ready to accept any other possibilities. Preston and Black walked through the Section halls as they spoke, at arriving Preston's desk.
"Have you found them?" he asked eagerly. "Make sure they're all there. There were seven, you know, including two kids. . ."
"We've found no trace of the Chans," said Preston. He noticed Captain Black's disappointment, but this was business. "Parts of the plane have turned up, but so far, no survivors or corpses. However, the aircraft appeared to have been blasted with some sort of torpedo. It's been smashed as though a powerful object tore through it, and there is damage that couldn't have merely been done on impact."
"I knew it," said Captain Black softly, his fists clenching. "I knew it was no accident. We must find out who is responsible."
"I believe we have a suspect," said Preston. "Some unusual data has turned up that simply cannot be coincidental. It looks to me that the plane was destroyed not for the purpose of silencing him, but instead as a tool of vengeance."
"What!" exclaimed Captain Black. "Revenge? Why do you say that?" His eyes narrowed. Jackie was a very good man. It was not easy for him to make enemies. The ones he did have he had because of his work with Black. If the Chans had been killed because of Jackie's work with Section 13. . .Blacks lips set in a grimace. "What's your evidence, Preston?"
Preston sighed and turned to his desk. "Sir, using DNA tests and the latest tracking equipment, we have managed to trace one, or possibly two, people who were present in the crash. The first DNA test displayed results belonging to a female, Chinese descent, between the ages of 8 and 13."
Black's eyes widened, and he quickly turned to Preston. "You don't think it's. . ." He left the question unfinished, but his intention was obvious. Preston nodded slowly.
"We are running further tests as we speak, but our scientists are 78% sure that the DNA belongs to Jade Chan. We have traced her DNA from the crash site to an island off Australia where a portion of the cabin turned up, to an island off the coast of Los Angeles. Whether she is alive or dead is unknown." Black's face fell at this news, but Preston continued. "What is troubling is the fact that Jade was not alone, but certainly not with a member of her family. DNA tests here were inconclusive- the DNA sample we took from the plane could be recognized as female, but showed traits more recognizable in aquatic creatures than humans. We don't understand this glitch, but it may have been caused by some sort of device to confuse tests such as ours. We can recognize very similar DNA on Catalina Island, and it appears very human."
Black nodded, concerned for the girl's safety. He cared about Jade just as much as his friend Jackie. She was a troublemaker and a handful, that was for sure, but she was also a very good, sweet girl and he would hate for anything to happen to her. "Do you have any idea who these people might be?" he asked seriously.
Preston sighed and played his trump card. "Just one. Research in the area shows that Jade Chan, the inconclusive DNA test, and several others boarded a boat headed for Los Angeles harbor. Here is their waiver."
The copied slip of paper was gripped between Black's large, rough hands. He read it seriously, then his eyes narrowed and his jaw clenched. He put the paper in his pocket, his hand shaking with rage. Finally, he spoke just one word, echoing what was written on the piece of paper. "Valmont," he muttered, and then stormed off down the halls.
***
A gaping hole in the wall opened, and an armored truck backed up inside. Guards stood on either side of the truck, guns ready to fire at any unauthorized movement. The hole closed up, and the truck rolled to a stop. The guards all positioned their rifles on the truck door. It opened, and several other guards stepped out. In their midst was a British man in his thirties with long, white blonde hair, an orange prison uniform, and handcuffs. He was led down the corridors to a small, dark room, without windows and having bars on the doors.
A small smile crossed his lips as Captain Black paced the corridor, a glare set on his face. "Ah, Black. I thought this little summons was your work. Now, whatever could I have done to warrant this business."
"I don't have time for your games, Valmont," said Black in a business like tone. "Where are they? How did you wreck the plane?"
Valmont yawned, knowing how much this was distressing his enemy. "I really don't know what you mean, Black. Can we make this quick? I'm missing prison movie night, and I do love that Harry Potter," he said with a patronizing smirk.
Black growled, and even Valmont looked slightly concerned. Obviously he hadn't been kidding when he had said he didn't have time for games. Pressing the barrel of his gun against Valmont's temple, he said in a low, dangerous voice "Where are the Chans?"
Valmont's eyes widened, and a grin spread across his lips. "Ah, so that's what this little game is about," he said silkily. "Someone has kidnapped poor Jackie Chan, and now you are blaming me. I must be cleverer than I look, to have executed all of this from my prison cell."
"I know your enforcers are still on the loose, Valmont, and I know they would never have come up with this themselves. Plus, I have proof. Does this look familiar?" snarled Black, showing Valmont the waiver bearing his name.
"Hmm," said Valmont sarcastically. "Well, then, obviously I am responsible. After all, if I were attempting to kidnap Chan and escape your agents, I would certainly sign my real name."
"This is one of your little practical jokes, Valmont. I know your style. It's just the same as when you nearly killed me, and then were so kind as to send flowers to my hospital ward to infuriate Jackie," Black muttered.
Valmont frowned. "And it's completely impossible that someone else would've signed my name to incriminate me. I'll admit it may be my style, but unfortunately, it is not my signature. Check the court records if you wish."
Black knew he wouldn't have to. He felt like an idiot. He had been so ready to believe that it was Valmont who hurt his friend that he ignored the obvious answer. Jade had been captured by someone who knew that Black's suspicion would easily fall on Valmont.
There were a series of rings to the tune of the Mission Impossible theme song. Valmont smirked, but Black, unabashed, answered it. "Black," he said gruffly. Then, his eyes widened slightly, and he stared at his phone, as if unsure this wasn't an elaborate prank. "Are you sure?" he asked, then nodded seriously. "Alright. Prepare our agents to be jetted to Los Angeles." With that, he closed the phone, and turned to Valmont. "Don't think I've forgotten about you. You're still my prime suspect." He dashed off down the halls.
"Oh, well," muttered Valmont. "I guess I'll never find out what happens to those poor little wizards." He slouched back in his cell, bored. After a few minutes, a cart stocked with cleaning supplies came into the room. It was driven by three very ugly women in baggy dresses, sanitary masks, and wearing scarves over their heads.
"Cleaning service," said one of them in a high pitched voice. Then, they proceeded to check every cell, noting that all except Valmont's were empty. Valmont narrowed his eyes. Something wasn't quite right here. His suspicions were proven right when the first maid pulled out a laser and cut through the lock. Then, the second and third maid grabbed Valmont under the armpits and pulled him out of the cell.
"Excuse me!" he said indignantly. "What is going on?" The maids set him down, and he brushed off his uniform with great dignity. "I'm beginning to doubt this is a cleaning service," he said dryly.
The maids grinned at him, and removed their masks. A satisfied smirk spread across Valmont's face as the first 'maid' responded "You got that right, Big V."
"What are you gentlemen doing here?" Valmont coolly asked of his three enforcers, obviously pleased with them for once.
"Well," said the first maid, the red-haired enforcer Finn, "We've tried chi wizards, demons, and even the Chans," he said, looking disgusted at the last.
"But we just haven't found any work as satisfying as our work with the Dark Hand," quipped the second maid, the small, skinny enforcer called Chow.
"Aww, that rhymes!" added the third enforcer, the slightly dull-witted Ratso, with a grin. "It's true, too."
"When we were with the Dark Hand, we were never turned into Dark Chi Warriors or made to wear shock cuffs," said Finn, obvious gratitude in his voice. "And you even tried to save us from that scary old chi dude."
"Plus, we got excellent dental," added Chow thoughtfully. The other two enforcers nodded in agreement with this.
"And you were so cute when you were little!" said Ratso in glee.
"So, how exactly do you plan to get me out?" asked Valmont, raising an eyebrow. The three enforcers grinned, and Finn patted the laundry cart invitingly.
"Hop on in, V. We'll roll you out," he said. Valmont stared at the dirty laundry cart in horror. Although he was not wearing his Armani suit, thankfully, he was certainly not about to crouch about in an old laundry basket with Black's undergarments. He had his pride.
"That's absolutely disgusting. I refuse to ride in there," he said simply. Finn, Ratso, and Chow shrugged.
"Well, I guess you could dress up like a maid, and Ratso could ride in the cart," suggested Finn. "He doesn't mind."
Valmont considered this. Wearing women's clothes, even in an attempt to escape, did not appeal to him. Some of his fellow crime lords had been getting ideas about Valmont, and whether or not they were true, it was not a reputation he needed to have. Gossip had spread about his "sorcerer's gown," and if anyone were ever to find out he had worn a dress, he would lose the little respect he still had in the underworld.
"I have a better idea," said Valmont shortly. "When I spoke to Black, he had just summoned all of his agents to Los Angeles. I'm prepared to bet that no one will even notice if we just slip out."
"Fair enough," agreed Finn. "After all, no one noticed when we slipped in wearing maids outfits even though Section 13 doesn't actually have maids. They even didn't notice when Ratso shouted 'It's Captain Black! Run! Oh, wait, sorry, it's just another agent' aloud."
Valmont rolled his eyes. He remembered now why he had been so exasperated with his enforcers while they had worked for him. But, he reminded himself, good help was hard to find, and you couldn't beat their loyalty. Although annoying, Finn, Ratso, and Chow were worth keeping around. He'd just have to find a fourth, competent enforcer to do what the other three weren't capable of. Tohru had done this job well, but he was unavailable. Perhaps Hak Foo would still fight for him?
Valmont put these thoughts aside and led the way through Section 13, despite not actually knowing where he was going. His three enforcers obediently followed. He had gotten far without seeing any agents, and was sure he'd find the exit soon enough. That was, until he heard the low whisper of a painfully familiar voice.
"Valmont?" hissed the voice. Valmont winced and rubbed his temple. The voice gave him a headache. He had hoped, apparently beyond hope, that he would never have to hear that horrible, complaining, commanding voice ever again. He had been a slave to it for months, and he hated the very sound of it. "Valmont, come in here," spoke the voice. Valmont turned. He was so used to not being able to stop the voice's commands that he simply had to obey.
The voice came from within a huge vault before him, the door left, for some reason, wide open. He'd been in here once before, briefly, when Chan's niece had taken the fortress as her palace. But he was disappointed to see that there were no talismans in here now. He was even more disappointed to see a familiar golden statue bound in a cell.
"Shendu," Valmont acknowledged with a groan. "Of course you're here," he said in annoyance. "Of course." Valmont's life had been heading rapidly downhill since the day he met Shendu, and no matter what he did, Shendu would never be gone from his life for good.
"Ah, Valmont, I am very pleased to see you," the draconian statue hissed, eyes flashing red. "I would like to ask you to do me a service."
Valmont frowned. "And why exactly, Shendu, should I help you?" He wanted to walk out of the room, but Shendu had some strange hold on him, and he found he couldn't leave.
"You will find, Valmont, that if you help me, it will be very worth your while," said Shendu, and Valmont could hear the sneer in his voice.
"Is that so, Shendu?" asked Valmont silkily. "Is this reward anything like the treasure of Chin Shi Huang?"
The strange sounds emanating from Shendu sounded almost like a chuckle. "You have your doubts. Listen to me, Valmont. My siblings have been awakened. I can feel their presence. And even more. . .darker creatures are stirring. You will want powerful friends, Valmont, and I am a very powerful friend indeed."
Valmont paused at this, considering. He didn't know about demons and dark stirrings, but after many years as leader of the top crime syndicate in the world, he knew about the advantage of good alliances. Shendu had proven, of course, that Valmont couldn't trust him, but as long as Shendu's favor didn't put him at too great a disadvantage, it mattered very little. "What exactly do you want me to do?" he asked, a note of skepticism in his voice.
Shendu's tone told of a smirk. "I knew you would come around," he responded.
"I haven't agreed yet," said Valmont pridefully.
"I merely wish you to alert my siblings to my presence here in Section 13. They obviously do not know where I am, and I will require their skills for my freedom. The old chi wizard has put some sort of spell on my statue, so to break free I will need either both the talismans and dragon's teeth, or a counter spell performed by my brothers and sisters." Shendu hissed in distaste against the chi wizard who had imprisoned him. "I do not know where they are, merely somewhere to the southeast of here. But I'm sure they will not be difficult to find."
Valmont smiled to himself, fairly sure he knew where Shendu's siblings would be. All of Section 13 wasn't summoned to a city without very good reason. "Perhaps I will help you, then. But why exactly should I risk myself and my men among your siblings? How can I be sure you'll keep your promises?"
Shendu hissed softly. "You have little choice. I may not possess many of my former powers, and even my Shadowkahn minions have been taken from me." He hissed in disgust. "However, you may find I still have some tricks left. I urge you to attempt to run, Valmont. I know you have been trying to leave, but you cannot. As you were my host for nearly a year, I still possess a great level of control over you when we meet in person. You may be able to resist me for awhile, but whether or not you help, my siblings will eventually free me."
Damn, thought Valmont. Shendu was right. He found his legs may as well have been glued to the floor for all that he could escape.
Shendu must have known Valmont's concern, because his voice had an added smirk to it. "Of course, if you are useful to me, I will release you from your bonds and give the Dark Hand a permanent place in our new world order.
"Whatever you say, Shendu," said Valmont annoyedly, knowing he had lost his bargaining edge and merely had to go along with the dragon's wishes. "Finn, Ratso, Chow, there's been a change of planes. What are our contacts in Los Angeles?"
"Yes. . ." hissed Shendu softly.
At that moment, seven jets flew low in the sky, over a thick cloud cover. They were all black except for an American flag insignia on the tail and the number 13 below it. One by one, they landed in the hills surrounding the city of Los Angeles. Captain Black stepped out of his plane, speechless at the sight that lay before him.
Author's Note~ *wince* I know, that was an incredibly cruel place to end the chapter. Especially when I promised a battle in this chapter. I truly meant to. . .that "Nevermind" wasn't originally on the chapter title. But I went off an a completely random seven page Valmont tangent. He wasn't even originally going to be in the story except for the cameo earlier on. In case any of you were wondering, Valmont was put in jail somewhere in the first 5 chapters of this story. Finn, Ratso, Chow, & Hak Foo were also caught, but they had escaped. If there's one thing those guys are good at, it's escapes.
But no complaints! Valmont is cool, and I actually really enjoyed this chapter. It's always nice to shift perspective a little bit. Hope Valmont and his enforcers weren't too OOC. Plus, I had to have this Shendu sub plot in the story somehow. Although it's not very important.
Sorry this story was late, but I couldn't put it up because I was spending Spring Break in San Francisco! ^_^ It was a JCA enthusiast's dream come true. I'm actually typing in the San Francisco airport as we speak. I visited Chinatown and looked (in vain, although I know it is somewhere!) for Uncle's Rare Finds, then started checking out random phone booths for Section 13 access. I didn't even find Valmont. :( But it was so fun! I love this city, it's so beautiful. Not all sunshine as so many TV Shows and movies would have you expect, but this great big city in the middle of these beautiful green hills and loads of water. We don't get green much in San Diego, since it gets so little rain. I planned to take pictures of all the JCA related landmarks I could find, but we forgot the digital camera. . Still, good times. :D
Heeheehee. . .I just downloaded desktop Stitch. If you give him coffee, he goes crazy and eats your documents. I'm easily amused. If you squirt him, he acts all good. Aww! Now he's surfings and dressing up like Elvis.
*cough* Yes, yes, posting the story. I'm getting there.
Scottishwolf- I wish I could take credit for spiffilicious, but that word was popularized by my friend, Spooji. She comes up with all of my odd language. I most definitely agree with you on the masks, plus I'm not exactly a Tarekudo fan. I, too, miss the Pan Ku days. Demons and talismans were the height of JCA, although I've always liked those random season 2 episodes that had nothing to do with demons or talismans, or even occasionally the dark hand.
Souma Kagura- Thank you for clearing the Scooby thing up for me, I was getting worried. I actually thought the chapter was funny too, but I was just frustrated that the plot hasn't been advancing forward. I love this chapter, although it, too, is slightly pointless.
ShadowElfBard- The head creeped you out too, did it? I liked that episode, but it was pretty weird. As for Drago, I too was confused, but I'm glad for that confusion. It gave me the idea for the plot of the sequel to this fic, which I really must write since this one will leave so much unsolved. Although info on TV Tome about Season 5 promises to make this fic and the sequel very AU. Oh, well. The disguises were fun. Okay, I was a big Scooby fan when I was younger, but even the small child in me is repulsed by the Kids WB modern day version. The only thing redeeming about that show was its cheesiness and its era. . .the modern attempt to make Scooby cool is sickening. Scooby wasn't that great an idea, and that's why it was so popular- it embraced it's badness. *sigh* Why won't Kids WB understand?
DanMat- Wow. That sounds like a pretty cool idea. I especially wonder about Parry. He interests me. For one thing, the name doesn't sound very Chinese. How long has he lived in America, does he know chi magic, and if so, where did he learn it? What will Gantu's role be in the story if he doesn't work for Hamsterviel? I'd really like to read this, so I hope you get writing. ^_^ Oh, and you mentioned Ratso & Finn. Where's Chow?
VampireNaomi- Thank you very much for your review of my story, A Late Night Cup of Tea. It was great fun to get a review over there from a writer I know from JCA and who's opinion I respect so much. I know what you mean about Riddle. I've long wanted to write a Riddle fic, but I've yet to have an idea, plus I fear I'll get the character wrong or give into too many Riddle clichés. I loved Xiao Fung's disguise, too. Living in Southern California, I see too many hapless tourists who pack as though they're heading to the tropics. It's actually quite cool here, contrary to popular belief.
Yu Mutuo- Sorry this update wasn't very soon. . I've been bad about that lately, and it doesn't look as though it's getting better. But I see the light at the end of the tunnel. . .only eight more weeks of school. Wow. . .that's only four more chapters until summer. Freaky.
Thanks for your patience, people. I'm pretending I updated last weekend with this Thursday night update, but chances are I'll still be late with the next one which technically should be up next weekend, since I'm going (again) out of town. I've become a social person, which is weird for me.
Oh. . .Chin Shi Huang, is that right? The treasure Valmont is promised by Shendu as a reward for his help in Season 1? Got it off a fansite.