Hello, folks. It's Part 3 of the Dolphin Keys arc and a key item in the story will appear in this chappy. And an awesome reviewer pointed out I should have other girls interact with Hunter and I gotta say that it will happen either In this arc or after it. Anyway, DCSG belongs to DC. Not me. Let's get it.
=====Chapter 22: Foe of the Golden Dolphins====
When we last left our heroes, they were enjoying their first day on Dolphin Keys and they ran into strange and wild characters. It was one morning where Diana and Hunter decided to take a stroll on the beautiful ocean line with Karen tagging along. They admired the morning sun as They watched the waves crashing on their legs as the Amazon marveled the beauty of the environment.
"It's so beautiful. The morning sun hitting the ocean like that.", Diana said as Karen beamed.
"Even the dolphins are so cute when they leap out the water like that. Oh Hunter, thanks for bringing us out here.", Karen said as Hunter grinned.
"Oh it's nothin'. Never hurts to bring hotties out here first thing in the morning.", Hunter boasted but he heard a distress cry coming from a dolphin. The girls heard it also as they all gasp specifically Karen as she spots an injured dolphin on the shore.
"Oh no! That poor dolphin's hurt! We gotta get somebody!", Karen said as Hunter had a plan.
"I see a lifeguard setting up his tent for the day. You two get over there and tell him about the beached dolphin. I'll go take a look.", Hunter said as Diana and Karen nodded.
"Okay. Be careful with a wounded animal, Hunter.", Diana said as Hunter assured her and Karen.
"Don't worry, ladies. I got that covered. Just go get him right quick.", Hunter said as the girls hurried on with the task. Hunter dashed with his superhuman speed towards the helpless creature and he was in awe of the creature. The dolphin's female for sure and it was a golden dolphin with a harpoon stuck in her body.
"Damn! That's not good! She's been shot with a harpoon! Also, she's pregnant!", Hunter said as Diana called out to the lifeguard who is following the girls.
"There's the injured dolphin, sir! Come quick and hurry!", Diana said as the lifeguard ran towards Hunter and the dolphin. Once he got close, he was in deep shock seeing a harpoon lodged in the dolphin's skin.
"Oh my gosh! Thank goodness you three found me when you did! This Golden Dolphin is endangered!", the man said as the two girls gasped.
"Endangered?!"
"Yes. So many poachers over the years hunted these precious creatures for food, skins and for sport. Somebody must've shot it earlier and it washed up here.", the lifeguard said as Hunter told him the news.
"The worst part is that the dolphin's going to be a mother. Look at her belly.", Hunter said as the other three gasped as the lifeguard turned to the air hero.
"I'm glad you took note of this. This mother could be one of many futures for the species to survive. I'll phone in the wildlife authorities. Whoever did this is sure to face heavy criminal offenses. If I call them right now, this dolphin will be saved.", the man said as the three sighed in relief. Hunter looked at the distressed dolphin in pain.
"Don't worry, girl. You'll be all right.", Hunter said as the lifeguard called in the wildlife officers. Afterwards, Lobo was told the news by the three teens as he grew angry at this. He aggressively chomped his breakfast as he made an angry threat.
"That's horrible! Whenever I find the (dolphin chirp) who tried to harm an innocent dolphin, I'll pound them or better yet, disembowel them!", Lobo said as Hunter deep down understood his friend's passion for dolphins especially the ones in space. Hunter feels the same way of tigers for if anyone tried to kill one, they'll be strung by their necks. The others were thinking of what to do for today as the race was tomorrow.
"Lobo, I'm sure the mother dolphin will turn out okay. Whoever did this to her would surely face jail time. For now, let's think of something to do on the island. The Zels are researching about the wildlife, why don't we ask them more about the Golden Dolphins?", Hunter said as Lobo softened his mood.
"Yeah. I guess you're right. Let's see what your future in-laws are doing In their research.", Lobo said with a grin as Hunter groaned as Kara snickered.
"We're having a girls day at the spa. It's totally going to be perfect for such an Occasion.", Zee said as Babs smiled in excitement.
"Spa days are totally the best thing ever invented for girls! Count me in!", Babs said as Zee nodded as she looked around.
"That's one on board. Any more volunteers?", the magician wondered as Kara, Jessica, Tatsu and Pam were on for the spa days. Diana and Karen decided to go with Hunter and Lobo to go on an expedition with the Zels.
"Well Freddie and I will head to the arcade with Kurt. It's a smorgasbord full of games in need Of playing.", Billy said excitedly as Zee rolled her eyes at Billy.
"Billy, you and Hunter think alike when It comes to videogames. Anyway, we'll be ready for the spa. See you guys later.", Zee said as Diana and Karen were sitting with Lobo and Hunter thinking about the injured dolphin. Diana saw Lobo's worried look as did Hunter.
"Lobo, I haven't seen you this down like that before.", Diana said as Lobo sighed.
"It's just that hearing about that poor dolphin out there reminded me of home where I often see space dolphins roam free and happy. I hop on my space hog and ride in space alongside them just to see them in peace. But one day, some cruel twisted jerk shot one for sport and it ticked me off to the point I got into a fight. It was tear jerking. It's coming from a tough guy at the table.", Lobo said as Hunter and the girls assured him.
"Dude, there's nothing wrong with being sad about the innocent creatures. Like I said earlier, whoever thought to harm a dolphin or an innocent creature for that matter is bound to serve jail time for It. I'm sure you care a lot for the dolphins as much as I do for tigers. I swear if anyone tried to kill or poach a tiger, then I skin the poachers alive.", Hunter said as the girls shuddered of the thought of poachers getting skinned or disemboweled by Hunter and Lobo respectively. The Zels checked up on the four teens as Doris looked puzzled at Lobo but Mrs. Zel tries to figure Out what was going on. Lobo explained everything that happened as the Zels gasped.
"Oh, dear! That's awful. And today is the Great Golden Dolphin Migration.", the scientist said as Lobo perked up at this.
"The Great Golden Dolphin Migration?"
"Yes. It occurs in mid-April and they usually appear at sunset at Dolphin Keys to congregate with other pods. A big family reunion of sorts for them. There used to be thousands upon thousands but due to poaching over the years, the Golden Dolphin species' numbers had dwindled. However, we're helping the species get a fighting chance so that many generations could witness these wonderful creatures.", Mrs. Zel said as the four teens were intrigued.
"The migration seems intriguing, Mrs. Zel. Can we tag along in your expedition in the jungles on this island?", Diana said on behalf of her friends. Mr. Zel smiled at the teens' eagerness to come on the trip.
"Why of course you can. In fact, we were getting ready to go there ourselves. Don't forget to wear long pants and shirts.",", Mr. Zel said as Lobo grew confused.
"Why so?"
"Snakes and bugs are out there in the jungle.", Hunter said as Mrs. Zel nodded.
"Correct. Come along, children. The jungle awaits us!", Mrs. Zel cheerfully said as the teens followed the Zels outside the hotel.
===In The DK National Park====
And so The Zels, Hunter, Lobo, Diana, Karen and Doris were on a guided trip inside a jeep big enough to fit them all in. The jungle had tropical birds, reptiles and unique creatures. The other person in the jeep was Circe herself though she wasn't going to do any villainy. Hunter and Diana had a suspicious look at Circe as they whispered to each other.
"Di, It's Circe. What's she up to this time?", Hunter said as Diana glared at the sorceress but shrugged it off.
"Not sure but she may not pose a threat yet. But let's be on our guard.", Diana said as Hunter nodded. The jeep stopped for a moment in a special parking area for the vehicles. The group entered the path of the jungle with the macaws and other birds making songs as Diana spotted them.
"Oh. Those birds are wonderful. Especially the macaws.", Diana beamed as Hunter grinned.
"Yeah. Parrots are so awesome. They can learn some words even sentence enhancers.", the air hero grinned as the girls and Lobo deadpanned.
"Only you could think of something Like that. I wouldn't be surprised If they learned that from you.", Doris said as the teens nodded. The guide led them up a path where some of the marmosets hanging in the treetops and of course the howler monkeys too. Hunter heard the howling noise as Lobo raised an eyebrow.
"The hell is that?", Lobo said as the guide smiled.
"That would be a troop of howler monkeys. They're very vocal aren't they?", the guide said with a chuckle as Lobo stood under a tree unaware that one howler was there.
"Oh no! Terrence, don't get under that tree when a howler monkey is over you!", Mrs. Zel said in alarm as Lobo got confused.
"What's that fleabag gonna do? Bite me to pieces? It doesn't look that tough!", Lobo said as the guide saw the howler pull out a brown smelly ball of you-know-what. Karen and Diana gasped as they knew what the monkey was about to do to Lobo.
"That's not mud! It's—",
"A big ball of Woo-Woo!", Hunter finished Diana and Karen's sentence as the big poop sped towards Lobo but he dodged out of the way as the smelly substance splattered onto the ground. Circe gagged at the sight as Lobo ran back to the group. Doris was laughing her butt off unaware that a curious marmoset jumped onto her head with Mrs. Zel laughing.
"What's so funny?", Doris and Lobo said In unison as Hunter explained to the Zarnian.
"Howler monkeys drop their crap to defend themselves against predators. They thought you were a threat to them and that's exactly what they did.", Hunter said as Lobo groaned.
"Now you tell me. Say, Red's got a little buddy on her head.", Lobo said as Doris looked up at the marmoset and growled.
"Get off me, you furball! What are you doing up there?!", Doris said as Mrs. Zel smiled.
"I think this marmoset wants to be friends with you, Sweetums.", the scientist said as Karen giggled at the scene before her.
"Awww. It's so cute. It really likes you, Doris.", Karen said as Doris huffed.
"KEH! Shut it, Beecher! And as for you, fleabag! Get off of my head!", Doris yelled with an anime angry face. The marmoset chattered and snickered as it played in Doris's hair. Circe smirked at the teens as she giggled to herself.
"This is entertaining to watch. If only—HEY! Give me my hat back, you little thing you!", Circe said as another marmoset snatched her summer hat off her head. Mr. Zel chuckled as he watched the curious marmosets mess with Doris and Circe.
"These little guys are curious..", he said as Diana grew concerned.
"We gotta do something before Doris thinks about making the poor creature her hat.", the Amazon said as Doris smirked.
"Not a bad idea. I'll make me a hat out of this furball!", Doris said as the marmoset grew pale as Hunter shook his head glaring at the ginger.
"Oh no you don't! Don't get any ideas turning into Cruella Jr. Let's just go on ahead and ignore the Little guy.", Hunter said as the guide agreed. Once the marmosets left the group alone and Circe got her hat back, they trekked on the path.
====Spa Day=====
The girls being Zee, Babs, Kara, Jessica, Tatsu, and the SRS girls were enjoying a spa day while Billy, Dirk, Kurt and Freddie were at the arcade. The first thing they did was soak in the warm hot springs as Zee sighed in relaxation as the others were enjoying it.
"Feels so good. Detoxes your body in no time.", Zee said as Kara smirked.
"That is if we don't get boiled alive like a lobster.", Kara said frightening Carol with Jessica frowning at the blonde.
"Kara, you're scaring Carol. Please don't do that.", Jessica said as Kara grinned.
"Oh ok. Will the water turn yellow if I pee in it?", Kara wondered as Harley grinned.
"Let's see and find out.", Harley said as Pam and the other girls narrowed their eyes at Harley and Kara's gross idea.
"Oh hell to the naw!", they chorused as Zee spoke on behalf of the girls against the idea.
"Kara and Harley, you're disgusting! You both better hold your bladders because this is fresh hot springs water! Do you understand?!", Zee said in her demon voice as Kara and Harley grinned and nodded.
"Good. Now let's enjoy the warm hot springs.", Zee said in her normal cheery voice as the girls soaked in the warm hot springs bath. Not too far from the girls were Lashena, Guillotina, Mad Harriet and Stompa in their own springs.
"Oh yes. Warm spring baths hits the spot.", Lashena said relaxing in the springs as Stompa relaxed thinking about a certain air hero.
"Oh yeah. If only Hunter was here with us. It'll be perfect.", Stompa said sighing as Guillotina rolled her eyes.
"Oh hush it, Stompa. This is a girls' day at the spa. We'll mess with the boys another time.", Guillotina said as Harriet whined.
"How come you girls get close to three of your boys and never me?! Freddie's a jerk! A real jerk!", Harriet pouted as Lashena sighed.
"Harri-chan, please stop whining about Freddie. There are more hot guys on the island you can sink your claws into. Not literally do that.", Lashena said sheepishly as Mad Harriet giggled.
Moments after the warm hot springs bath, the girls were doing a facial treatment while relaxing in the mud bath. Kara ate one of the cucumbers causing Tatsu to gasp.
"Kara! Those aren't for eating!", Tatsu said as Barbie huffed at the blonde.
"What a dummy. She's as dopey as Doris.", Barbie teased as Kara had an anime vein on her face.
"KEH! I know you're not talking, Barbie! Shut up and wallow in the mud for all I care!", Kara scoffs as Barbie growled as Babs shook her head at the two bickering girls.
"Girls, let's not fight. And Kara, Tatsu's right. Those cucumbers are for exfoliating and pore cleansing. Not for chowing down at the spa.", Babs said as Zee nodded in agreement.
"Exactly. Now the staff is going to issue out another pair of cucumbers and this time, don't eat them!", Zee said as Kara sheepishly smiled. After the spa worker issued Kara another pair of cucumber slices, the Kryptonian finally got the gist of the slices and let it lay Over her eyes. Soon, Jessica broke the awkwardness to the group.
"I heard from Mrs. Zel that the Great Golden Dolphin Migration is happening all week. Are any Of you stoked about it?", Jessica said as Kara raised an eyebrow.
"What's the big deal about Golden Dolphins? They're just like any other dolphin anyway.", the Kryptonian said nonchalantly as Zee corrected her.
"The Golden Dolphin is a unique subspecies of dolphin that are usually found in the Caribbean, Australia and parts of South America. They come to their breeding and feeding grounds to birth the next generation of Golden Dolphins and are the largest subspecies in size.", Zee said as others were wowed by the facts. Jessica knew about Lobo being unhappy earlier as she brought up something.
"That injured Golden Dolphin Hunter and the others found must've upset Lobo and for a good reason. Who would spear a poor creature?", the Lantern said as Harley voiced her opinion.
"Probably some bunch Of meanies!"
"True and thanks to years of poaching for their unique golden color, their numbers are now in the endangered list.", Zee said as Selina raised an eyebrow.
"What would they want with a dolphin anyway? You can't possibly do anything with it.", she said dumbfounded as Zee sighed.
"They've been poached for meat, skin and trophies.", Zee explained as the girls had disgusted looks on their faces at the mention of meat. Kara grinned causing raised eyebrows to come her way.
"What? Dolphin meat wouldn't be so bad. Especially burgers and hot dogs.", she smirked as Babs frowned.
"You better not let Lobo hear you say that. He loves dolphins with a passion. He's not afraid of pounding anybody who dares to support cruelty to them.", Babs warned as Tatsu nodded.
"Yes. And the injured mother dolphin Hunter found is expecting a calf or two. So thank goodness she's saved in time.", the swordswoman said as Zee nodded.
"Yes. In fact, Hunter texted me and said that the mother dolphin is doing well and will be released back in the ocean this week.", she said as everyone sighed in relief as they enjoyed the mud bath.
====Back in the jungle====
Our heroes trek into the jungle where Karen spotted a sloth eating leaves as she cooed at it. Mr. and Mrs. Zel took snapshots of many of the creatures as Doris saw a boa constrictor far away with a lump in its' body.
"Hahahahahaha. That stupid creature got eaten by an awesome boa!", she said as Diana frowned.
"Doris, that's not funny. It's sad that whatever animal's in there suffered too much.", Diana chastised as Doris huffed.
"It's eat or be eaten. Welcome to the jungle."
"We have fun and games!", Lobo said referencing a Guns and Roses song. Hunter grinned as Diana and Karen protested against it as Circe grew amused.
"We got everything you want! Honey, we know the name we got It! Oof!", Hunter yelped as did Lobo and Doris for Diana and Karen struck them with yellow pages.
"That oughta teach you three not to do that when a poor creature is being devoured.", Karen said with a glare as the guide spotted something in the shadows leaping from out of nowhere in front of the group being a jaguar.
"RAAAO!", it roared showing it's fangs glaring harshly at the group as Mrs. Zel screamed.
"Oh my goodness! It's a jaguar!"
"A big scary jaguar!", Karen shuddered as the jaguar licked its lips at the bee girl sensing her fear. The others noticed this as the man had a tranquilizer gun to shoot the cat.
"Stay back, everyone! Everything's under control!", the guide said cocking the gun but unfortunately, the tranquilizer was jammed. This made everyone panic as Karen deep down wailed.
"We're gonna become cat food!", Karen whined as Lobo gulped staring at the snarling big cat as Circe picked up what the cat was angry about.
"I think I know what she's saying.", Circe noted as Hunter had a raised eyebrow.
"How would you know it's a female?! And for the record, what did the jaguar want with us other than becoming her next meal?!", Hunter said as Diana and Circe understood what the jaguar said.
"What do you want with us, jaguar?!", Diana said as the jaguar growled something. Diana and Circe nodded as the jaguar kept growling and made inaudible noises to communicate. The two rivals gasped and spoke to the group albeit Hunter and the other teens as the Zels and the guide cowered in fear.
"The jaguar told us her cubs were kidnapped and thought we were the kidnappers.", Circe said as Hunter gasped.
"What? First, an injured Golden Dolphin and now catnapped cubs? That's quite an exciting day. And I'm being sarcastic.", Hunter said as Diana spoke jaguar as Doris grew frightened as she jumped into Hunter's arms Scooby-Doo style as Karen babbled about the cat.
"Hold me, Hunter! I don't wanna become that jaguar's lunch!", Doris whined as Lobo deep down snickered and Circe deadpanned.
"Yes. Somebody out here must've taken the por mother's cubs and the jaguar says whoever has her babies better give them back or expect some skulls to get crunched.", Diana said after speaking in jaguar. Hunter still holding a scaredy-cat Doris raised an eyebrow.
"You speak jaguar? No way!", Hunter said in amazement as Diana and Circe nodded with Karen and the others puzzled.
"Yes. On Themyscira, I'm blessed with understanding the animal language. Doris, the Jaguar's gone. You can get down now.", Diana said as Doris noticing that the jaguar was gone looked at Hunter and gasped.
"What the—What am I? Sleeping Beauty? Let me down, you nerd!", Doris said quickly getting to her feet as the guide and the Zels were out Of their shock. After the scary encounter with a jaguar, they spot a sound straight ahead as they went to a boat.
"There's a sound up ahead.", the guide said as Diana grew confused.
"What's a sound? I don't hear anything.", Diana said confused as Hunter explained what it is.
"A sound is a type of waterway kind of like a lake but it's caonnected to the ocean.", Hunter said as Diana understood what it meant now. Suddenly, the group heard two masculine voices talking.
"Nice going, stupid! You let the Golden Dolphin get away!"
"Don't sweat it, man! We'll bag another one just like it. You do remember that it's their migration all week."
"I know that, you moron! Now the wildlife Five-O is investigating thanks to your screwup!"
"Just be happy we bag these jaguar cubs! They'll be worth every penny!"
"Fine! But we'll hunt some more at the sound! And you better not do the same mistake like you did the last time! C'mon!", the two bulky men carrying the cage with the jaguar cubs went on a different route to the sound area as Lobo balled his fists in anger.
"Those damn creeps! SO they're the ones who nearly killed the mother dolphin!"
"Yeah. And they got the mama jaguar's cubs too! They're heading to the sound to hunt down more Golden Dolphins.", Hunter said after Lobo voiced his frustration. Diana chimed in coming up with a plan as the other teens listened in.
"Okay, everyone. Here's the Plan. Since we're going to the sound, we need to keep an eye on the poachers. If we spot them in the act Of shooting down a dolphin, then we sound the attack. However, since Doris and the Zels do not realize that we are superheroes, we'll have to act like we—"
"Need to take a leak.", Lobo said as Hunter snickered as Diana frowned.
"I was thinking of using the bathroom but you're right. Once we do, we'll defend the creatures.", Diana said as Karen nodded In agreement.
"Good idea. Let's stop these creeps before any innocent animals get hurt.", Karen said as the group head in the direction of the Sound.
Once they were there, the guide called In for a boat for everyone to use. The teens except for Doris and Circe were on scouting duty looking for the poachers. The guide spotted some Golden Dolphins swimming together in a pod as the Zels marveled with Lobo spotting them in awe.
"Oh goody! We're witnessing the migration of the Golden Dolphins! Aren't they so beautiful?", Mrs. Zel said as the guide nodded.
"Yes. These creatures are one of many that have a magnetic ability and sharp memory to make it here to feed and breed."
"Whoa. Brings back memories in outer space. Who would wish to harm an innocent animal like a dolphin?", Lobo thought to himself as Hunter noticed.
"I agree. No wild animal should suffer like this. I feel the same way about big cats and wolves.", Hunter said as Lobo understood the mutual feeling about the animals. Diana and Karen took pictures of the dolphins while Doris and Circe were standing there relaxing. However, a boat came as the guide raised an eyebrow.
"That's odd. The boat was suppose to be here in 10 more minutes.", the guide confused said as the scientists spot something odd.
"That's odd. There's two bulky men with jaguar cubs in their cages!", Mr. Zel said in shock while Mrs. Zel saw a harpoon gun aiming for the dolphins.
"Oh no! Poachers! They're going to hunt down the dolphins!", she said in alarm as the guide yelled at the two men.
"Put down the harpoon gun right now! This is a no hunting zone! It is also illegal to hunt and capture endangered species!", he said as the two men smirked.
"Well well. So the passersby saw our plans coming to action.", the big bulky one said as the shorter one smirked.
"Yeah. But there's nothing they can do about it. Black Manta will be so pleased that we smuggle some Golden Dolphins for him.", he said as Lobo growled and yelled.
"All right, you (ARFS)! Who the hell do you think you are harming an innocent creature?! I Oughta skin both your hides and wear ya as boots!", Lobo said as the group tried to calm him down. The shorter henchman laughed at Lobo's threats as the Zels were frightened as did the guide.
"You little freak! You're just a little runt as is your little Cabbage Patch gang! We're going to get rich and there's nothing you can do about it!", he said as the bigger one chuckled.
"That's right! Black Manta sent us here to do— Oww!"
"Shut up, Stan you moron!", the shorter one said hitting Stan in the gut as Hunter glared dangerously.
"Who is Black Manta?! You're little stooge said his name! And release the cubs!", Hunter said as Diana and Karen grew worried.
"Hunter, be careful!", they chorused as the Others grew concerned as the poachers drew their guns grinning.
"Oh being the hero, eh? How about you die like one unless you step Out of our way then we'll let you and the others Live. As for the cubs, we're keepin' 'em!", the short man said as Diana spoke with anger in her eyes.
"We won't stand for this any longer! Tell us who is this Black Manta is!", Diana demanded as another masculine voice caught them off guard.
"Here's your answer!", the voice said revealing to be a pirate of sorts wearing a manta ray like suit with the group in alarm.
"Are you Black Manta?!", Karen said in worry as the pirate smirked.
"Why yes, little girl! And I take It that you met my henchmen.", Black Manta said as the guide grew terrified. Hunter and Lobo were angry at this guy as the air hero voiced his concern.
"So you're the one responsible for harming the Golden Dolphins! And what the hell are you going to do with them?!", Hunter yelled as Black Manta grinned evilly.
Oh so my bumbling idiots had to be blabbermouths telling ruts like you our Plan. You Know what? I'll let you all in on a little secret. These Golden Dolphins you all learned originated from the Caribbean and everywhere else was a lie!", he said as the Zels gasped.
"But we researched their breeding grounds! They come here to breed every year!", Mrs. Zel said as the pirate chuckled.
"That's where you're wrong! These creatures originated from Atlantis! The place I surely despise!", he growled as Hunter grew shocked knowing that Garth somehow adopted his powers from there. Mr. Zel spoke on behalf of the shocked group.
"But I thought Atlantis was a myth! How do you know all about it?!", he said afraid of the Pirate.
"Oh you Know! I wanted to rob the technologies of the city that still exists today and the nation has their diverse creatures of the deep. And those Golden Dolphins will help fuel my cause for riches beyond belief! And you all stand In my way!", Black Manta said menacingly as Diana grew worried.
"So you're going to rob Atlantis of it's sea life for your own gain? That's greed!", Diana shouted as Black Manta grabbed her violently as she shouted.
"AAAAAAAH!"
"Sir, please let her go! Please!", Mrs. Zel said as the other teens were worried as the Pirate squeezed the Amazon tightly with Karen crying for her friend's life. Hunter pulled out a smoke bomb unaware to Manta.
"You better watch your tone, little girl! Words coming from an insolent brat is meaningless! You sure have your beliefs. Now die for it!", Manta shouted squeezing Diana as she screamed until a smoke bomb detonated causing the huge smoke to blanket the two.
"What the—", Black Manta's words was interrupted as punches and Kicks were dished out. The group gasped as the beatdown commenced and the poachers jumped out of the boat to help out only to get shot with a fireball knocking them out. Once the smoke cleared, there stood a very pissed off Hunter and a battered Black Manta with Diana freed. Manta stared at Hunter's form being Captain Hurricane and glared.
"Who are you?!", Black Manta shouted as Hurricane snarled.
"Your worst nightmare, bub! If you ever try to harm my friends, I will personally mess you up!", Hurricane said as Manta growled.
"So you got the nerve to fight me? No matter. I will accomplish my mission. In fact, I heard a lot about you, Hurricane from the media. You've been a real pain and since I'm going to enter in the Grand Prix, let's settle this in front of many watching. The people that adore you greatly that will watch you die! Then exploiting Atlantis will be my goal!", Manta said as Hurricane nodded.
"Very well. We'll settle the score in the Grand Prix tomorrow so everyone will know how much of a monster you really are! You do know the time and place, right?", Hurricane said as Manta smirked.
"Yes. And be ready for I will be the one to take you down! You've made yourself an enemy, blue one. Just like Aquaman is my first enemy! C'mon, boys! We're leaving!"
"But, Boss! What about those cretins! And that other kid's gone!", the henchmen said unaware that Hunter was Hurricane.
"Do as I say! Now let's go! And release those fleabags!", he said as the henchmen released the jaguar cubs and the three villains left the scene with the guide looking at Captain Hurricane.
"Sir! Thank you for saving the wildlife and everybody else! But the three got away!", he said in a panic.
"Don't worry, sir! They announced their arrival at the Grand Prix tomorrow. I'll stop them yet! You all be careful now! I must go now!", Hurricane said vanishing with a smoke bomb. After the smoke cleared out, Hunter appeared out Of hiding as the girls and the others were glad he's okay.
"Hunter, I'm so glad you're safe! In fact, everyone Is okay.", Mrs. Zel said as the guide nodded.
"Yes. Thanks to a blue clad hero saving our Lives! In fact, his face structure looks identical to the boy there.", he said pointing to Hunter as he sheepishly grinned.
"We must be twins in a way. But at least he saved Our hides and the animals they were about to steal.", he said as the man nodded.
"I'm sure you guys are shook from the incident. I'll escort you back if you wish.", he said as the group thought about it for a moment as they agreed to continue as the boat came along. As the group head to the boat, a tap on the shoulder caught Hunter's attention revealing to be Doris as she grew suspicious.
"That Captain Hurricane guy looks just like you. Where were you hiding at anyway?", Doris said with a suspicious eye on the air hero.
"I was blown into the bushes when the smoke bomb went off. Captain Hurricane can be such a klutz sometimes.", Hunter said hoping Doris will buy into the Lie.
"Okay, fine. I always think Captain Hurricane can be a goof. But I'm just glad you're okay. Don't scare me like that, okay?", Doris said with a genuine concern as Hunter nodded.
"Don't worry, Doris. I'll be careful. The important part is that I'm still alive.", Hunter said with a grin as Doris frowned.
"Scare me like that and you'll be trying to stay alive. Got It?", Doris warned with a glare as Hunter nodded with the ginger dragging him to the boat where everyone else was waiting to go.
=======Back At The Hotel=======
It was dinner time and the teens were eating good. Diana noticed Hunter not touching his food as did some of the others as Billy asked him something.
"Yo, Hunter. What's wrong, bud? You haven't chowed down on the good eats, man.", the wiz hero said as Zee was worried.
"Why are you glum, Hunter? Did everything go okay on the expedition?", the magician said as Hunter sighed.
"We ran into the poachers that were responsible for the injured dolphin we found this morning.", Hunter said as the group except for Karen, Diana, Lobo and Doris gasped. Zee was worried as she heard the news.
"You all ran upon the poachers? Thank goodness you all are okay!"
"the mastermind was none other than Black Manta.", as Hunter said the guy's name, Jessica gasped at this and was worried.
"I heard of him before. Garth and Aquaman fought him once when he invaded Atlantis. What's he doing here at Dolphin Keys?", Jessica wondered as Lobo explained.
""That dirtbag wanted to get the Golden Dolphins for a quick buck! And they came from Atlantis and the fact they are linked to the place drives the pirate freak bonkers!", Lobo said as Karen voiced her worries.
"The bad part is that he's entering the Grand Prix tomorrow to finish Hunter off!", Karen said as everyone grew worried for Hunter's life. Billy, Freddie and Lobo realized they were in the Grand Prix with Hunter as a team but Kara smirked.
"Oh come on. We'll stop those slobbery mangy stupid poachers!", Kara said as Diana shook her head.
"Kara, this guy is Out for Hunter's hed. He'll get Killed if he gets the chance.", Diana said scared remembering that she was nearly killed by Manta's grip. Hunter thought about It for a second and voiced his opinion.
"As much as we know now about Black Manta, he must be stopped. And the only way is the Grand Prix.", Hunter said as Babs voiced her protests as did the Other girls.
"Have you gone crazy? That psycho will kill you and we'll never see you again!""
"Hunter, please reconsider your choice! Black Manta and his henchmen are ruthless.", Karen begged as Hunter shook his head.
"I have to do It, guys. Besides, it's too late to get out of the Grand Prix. And besides, Black Manta wants to exploit Atlantis through the Golden Dolphins. I understand your concerns but my decision stands. I'm entering the Grand Prix.", Hunter said as Zee frowned at his choice.
"Hunter, that is the most reckless and stupid thing you ever done! We're not going to stand for it!", Zee said as everyone glared at Hunter except for the Other boys, Diana and Karen. The air hero glared at Zee for telling him that.
"Are you serious right now? You'll never understand my reason to race tomorrow more than ever! I need to do this!", Hunter said as Zee banged on the table in frustration.
"You're being inconsiderate right now, Hunter! You're the most stubborn jerk I've ever met!", Zee said glaring at Hunter as the others didn't know what to do.
"Damn it! If you're going to let that bastard hurt somebody else tomorrow then fine! I'm getting the hell back to my room! (dolphin chirp) it!", Hunter yelled as he stormed off running to the halls ignoring his friends' calls. Diana looked at Zee as she crossed her arms at the magician.
"Zee, why did you push him towards the edge like that? He had a reason to race against Black Manta tomorrow!", Diana said as the magician looked at the Amazon like she was crazy.
"Yeah. A reason to get himself killed! What dumb reason is it then huh?"
"You weren't even there to know the reason! Other than Lobo, Karen and Doris, you all don't even know the situation! And because of your outburst, he's now angry and determined to stop Black Manta at all costs!", Diana said as Jessica chimed in.
"But Zee's right, DI. Hunter's being reckless wanting to race against somebody who is dangerous and deadly.", Jessica warned but Billy shook his head at the arguing. Lobo frowned at the group and pounded the table so Loud that the team looked at his angered expression.
"Guys! This isn't getting us anywhere! We're all concerned about Our friend's safety and yeah, if I was in his shoes, I would do the same damn thing! Hunter needs us more than ever and we're attacking him for his decision!"
"Lobo, this doesn't concern you!"
"Shut the hell up, Zee! In fact, shut up and fragging listen! Diana was almost killed by that pirate bastard choking her death all because she was doing what was right!", Lobo said as the group looked at Diana and Karen as Zee softened her mood and was shocked.
"Di, is this true?!", Zee said as Diana nodded.
"Yes. I was near death's door but Hunter saved me before that could even happen. When he saw me about to die, his eyes changed from fun-loving to protective rage beating Black Manta to send a message to him before he'd hurt the others in the group. That's why Hunter wanted to race more than ever. To be sure no one else gets hurt or worse. Just like Dr. Bloodborn tried to harm us, Hunter didn't want the same thing to happen. So please imagine what it's like in his shoes.", Diana said as everyone understood now of the situation.
"But Hunter left in anger. There's no telling where he is.", Babs said as Zee felt guilty as did everybody else.
"Di, we're sorry about attacking Hunter like that. I never knew he was that determined to do this.", Zee said solemnly as Tatsu had a hunch.
"The important thing now is to find hunter and make it up to him. The question is, where would he be?", Tatsu said as Karen heard a waitress call out.
"You're wondering where your friend is? He headed out at the beach. He looks pretty down.", she said as the group heard their answer.
"Oh thank you, ma'am. We're going to look for him.", Karen said as the waitress nodded. The teens searched for their friend.
=====At the beach=====
It was a calm sunset as Hunter sighed to himself still a bit angered of what happened in the jungle and Zee's outburst. His mood turned into fear and sadness thinking about what would've happened if Diana died in front of him.
"Damn! No one else will understand what I'm really going through except for Di, Karen, Lobo and Billy. Seeing Diana in that position scared me. I have feelings for her and Karen too. I wouldn't forgive myself if they were to die in front of me today. it would all be my fault. All of it! It would've been the same as what happened in North Star City that will shock me for the rest of my Life!", Hunter said shaking thinking about that traumatic experience where he held his dying cousin Stanley in his arms at front of the school. Seeing Diana in that position with Black Manta triggered a flashback where he saw Stanley and the bully in place of the Amazon and the pirate. In fact, he remembered the letter Dr. Bloodborn left behind after the Toon's team stopped the evil doctor and his allies from conquering the multiverses.
"That letter as well from Bloodborn has me determined more than ever to protect my friends no matter what. I rather die myself than to have my friends suffer the same fate.", Hunter said sadly as Zee's voice echoed as did the others.
"There he is! We found him!", Zee said as Hunter had that sad expression on his face. The group went up to him as Diana and Karen hugged the air hero.
"Thank goodness we found you out here! You scared us taking off like that!", Karen said on behalf of the group as Hunter nodded.
"Yeah. Sorry about that, guys. A lot has been going on today.", Hunter said as Kara nodded.
"Yeah. You did storm off in a rage. That's my job you know.", Kara said as Tatsu elbows her in the ribs. Zee with a guilty look apologizes to Hunter for what happened earlier.
"Hunter, what I said earlier. I'm sorry about that. It's just that we didn't want to lose you. It scared me and the rest of us when you opted to race against Black Manta.", Zee said as Hunter had an understanding.
"Yeah. That's understandable. But after what Manta did to Diana, I couldn't stand there and let him harm or do worse to you guys. When I saw Di about to die in that pirate's grip, a traumatic event flashbacks in my mind.", Hunter said as the group other than Diana, Karen, Lobo, Billy and Freddie didn't know what he meant. Babs had a worried look on her face as did the others.
"What do you mean?", she wondered as Billy sighed.
"I think I know what he's talking about. He witnessed his cousin die in front of him after school right in his arms.", Billy said as the Others that didn't know what happened gasped.
"How did he die? That's awful!", Zee said as Hunter shook in sadness.
"H-He was shot in the head by a bully who doesn't have the balls to move on after my cousin the day before stood up for himself! He fell into my arms and died within seconds as the bully smirked and ran off. It was horrifying!", Hunter said crying as Zee gasped at the air hero's vulnerability.
"Oh my goodness! So that's why you wanted to race against Black Manta.", Zee said as Jessica and the others had a sad expression.
"Yeah. And you know what else happened in the Jungle? When I see Diana and Manta, I see Stanley and his murderer. I threw into a fit of rage and battered Manta but luckily I had to stop with an Inch of sense I had in that raging state. If she and the rest of you die, it will all be my fault. In fact, I blame myself in a way for Stanley's death.", Hunter said as everyone gasped as Hunter continued.
"Yeah. I had a part in that too! If I hadn't told Stanley to stand up for himself, he would still be alive! And now, he's dead!", he said crying as Lobo saw his friend in turmoil. Though everyone was on vacation, they had to help their friend in his time of need. He walked up to the sobbing air hero as did Diana and Karen as they try to lift his spirits up.
"Hunter, listen to us, man! It's never your fault your cousin died from an idiot refusing to take an L and move on with his life. I get why you wish to race tomorrow, you don't want anyone here suffer the same fate as Stanley. Guess what. We're here, pal! Besides, Team Rowdyruff has a new reason now to be in the Grand Prix more than ever! The Main Bro never goes back on his word and this is one of these times.", Lobo said as Karen agreed.
"It's true. Whatever that bully did to Stanley, he's paying for what he's done. We'll help you get over your trauma. We're In this together.", Karen said hugging a sniffling Hunter as Billy and Freddie nodded.
"Hell, yeah! We're gonna overcome this, dude! Hel, in North Star City, we fought bad guys just like Black Manta. We got your back. We're going to win this race tomorrow and expose the dirtbag for what he is!", Billy said as Kara smirked as she posed.
"Yeah. And if Manta thinks he's going to take us all down, we ain't going nowhere! We'll show that pirate freak he can't mess with us!", Kara said as Hunter's sobbing died down as Zee nodded.
"We overcame so much and we're going to do the same tomorrow. You're our friend and we're with you all the way. Please don't fight this trauma alone, Okay?", Zee said hugging the air hero as Hunter nodded feeling a little better.
"Thanks, guys. I really needed that. You're right. I won't have to fight this internal battle alone. That's something to be happy for. I'm sounding sappy, aren't I?", Hunter said smiling as Jessica shook her head.
"Not at all, Hunter. It's okay to feel that way.", she said as the others agreed. Babs noticed something far off as the Golden Dolphins including the injured mother now healthy with a scar leaping out of the water gazing at the teens with a thank you chirp.
"Awww. The Golden Dolphins are so cute! And the mother's okay too!", she beamed as Lobo smiled looking at the pod gathering to feed in the distance.
"Ah. Glad that you guys are doing okay. Thank you, Hunter dude.", Lobo thought to himself as he spotted Hunter and The others watching this spectacle unfold as more came in leaping and communicating. The others being the SRS, The Zels, Minervas and John Zatara with plenty others witnessed the spectacle as Mr. Zel grinned.
"Glad I came just in time. And the mother dolphin is doing great.", he said as Mrs. Zel nodded.
"Yes. And the pod from the sound is doing okay as well. It's a beautiful thing to see before our very eyes.", she said as the others agreed in unison. Diana and Karen looked at Hunter with a smile on their faces as Hunter returned it back.
"Girls, thanks for being there for me. I was in a dark moment I was struggling in battling.", he said as Karen nodded.
"It's okay. Those creatures out there have their own dark times to deal with but they have each other to depend on. Believe It or not, animals have feelings and emotions just Like we do.", Karen said as Hunter smiled.
"Just like wolves and tigers.", Hunter said as Diana sat closer to him as did Karen.
"Yes. Though it's not easy to overcome a battle but in the end, you'll come out victorious and it's all worth it.", Diana said as she kissed him as did Karen as the air hero blushed. The three snuggled while the others sat on their own towels watching the dolphins go by. Circe eyed Hunter and sighed to herself hoping she was in the mix with her rival Diana and Karen but decided to stay out of their affairs.
In the hotel room, Hunter had a determined look on his face with a picture of the racer the boys are going to use tomorrow. The racer resembled that of Captain Falcon's Blue Falcon but it was four seated as the three other boys being Lobo, Billy and Freddie had determined looks as well. In the corner, they had racing outfits thanks to Zee in Lobo, Billy and Freddie's cases.
"Well, guys. This is it. Tomorrow's the Grand Prix.", Hunter said as Freddie nodded.
"Yeah. We're up against aggressive racers in the same boat as we are. But will Captain Hurricane come out or will you race as yourself?", Freddie wondered as Lobo thought about it.
"Come to think of it. It wouldn't matter anyway. We can pose as cosplayers without using our powers. Hell, look at the threads Zee and Tatsu thought up for me.", Lobo said pointing to a bandana with rounded shades and a biker jacket and pants with a blaster holster just for him. Hunter raised an eyebrow knowing what game reference and the character he was from.
"Let me guess. Samurai Goroh or should I say, Samurai Lobo?", Hunter smirked as the boys grinned.
"Sweet. An F-Zero reference. Anyway, let's get some shuteye for we got a race to do.", Billy said as the boys agreed going to bed. Unaware to the boys, outside at the beach sat two F-Zero like vehicles with the Atlantean royal crest on the sides. One was sky blue while the other Is indigo. The two shadowy figures resembled a man and a woman piloting the respective machines as they gaze at the Dolphin Keys Resort. The man holding a trident of sorts had a regal glare as he was deep in thought.
"Black Manta, I will stop you yet! Mara, are you ready for our mission to bring Black Manta to justice?", the man said as Mara nodded.
"Yes, Arthur my love. We're here to enter the Grand Prix to bring Manta down. But I heard that a blue clad hero is in the race also."
"Yes. I'm aware of that. We may have an ally in the midst of an important mission. The Golden Dolphins are our treasured creatures of Atlantis. I will not let another surface dweller like Black Manta harm our sea life and innocents as well. Come along, Mara. We must retire to our outpost in the deep. We got a big day ahead of us.", Arthur said as Mara nodded as both figures entered the two vehicles as it morphed into submarine like crafts going back into the deep.
A/N: That's Chapter 22, folks. I introduced a villain dubbed Black Manta who is Aquaman's enemy and speaking of Aquaman, he and his wife Mara appears briefly but they'll appear in the next chapter racing in the Dolphin Keys Grand Prix with the same motives as Hurricane and friends. I made the latter parts of the chapter a bit dark. It shows Hunter's internal turmoil dealing with the trauma similar to Batman when he witnessed his parents getting shot. In a way, Hunter's vulnerability is his struggle to overcome the trauma of his cousin's death. It builds character development of Hunter in a way since he doesn't want anyone that he holds dear to suffer the same fate as Stanley. Anyway, thanks for reading and don't forget to review, fav and follow. As always, LilMancub out and I'll see y'all in the next one.