Giving himself one last look in the cracked mirror, Kenny sighs. Zipping his orange puffer coat close over his white undershirt, the netherborn glanced into his backpack. Smudges of purple and green pressed together. Zipping it close he placed he quickly pushed his hat further down his head. Flinging the bag over his shoulder he went out the front door.
Digging into his pockets he grabbed a key and locked his apartment door. As the cold wind roared he flipped his faux fur hoodie over his head. Turning around he checked his phone before heading towards his destination.
Pulling his black neck gaiter face scarf just above his nose, he also stuffed his gloved hands into his black jean's pockets in an effort to keep them warm, Kenny McCormick gazed at the world around. South Park, the small town within the mountains of Colorado, where he grew and lived his whole life. This little town had barely changed at all, even as he prepared for community college to begin the next chapter of his life South Park remained mostly the same, if not at least becoming a little shitter.
Or maybe it became a lot shitter than he realized, maybe that was why most of his friends left. No, he couldn't blame them, they were moving onto the next phases of their lives. If they had to leave South Park to do so then so be it. Shaking his head he decided not to dwell on it any longer, after all they still kept in touch even if they were miles apart. Silently he walked on until he spotted an aged wooden sign, signifying he made it.
"Kenny over here!" Arriving at Stark's Pond a voice called out to him, looking in its direction he was greeted with a waving Butters, wearing his super villain outfit. Letting out a small smile he went over and joined his friend.
"Hey Kenny!" he greeted once again, his voice as chirpy as ever.
"Hey."
"Hey where's your costume?" Looking over his friend's iconic orange parka and matching pants, Butters gave him a worried look. "You didn't forget we were playing super heroes did you?"
"I didn't." Swinging his bag forward, he let the super villain peep inside, "I have it right here."
"Oh ok!" Butter answered with a smile, before a look of realization came across his face followed by a cough. "I mean, you better get out of here, feeble human. For only a superhero has any hope to defeat Professor Chaos!" Ending his speech with an evil laugh, Professor Chaos turned around and looked away. Getting the message Kenny stepped away, finding a large tree to change behind.
As he slipped out of his clothes and into his alter ego, he had to remind himself why they were doing this. It's been years since they played superheroes.
It all began with a message from Douchebag, or New Kid as they preferred, calling over the remaining kids they suggested playing superheroes one last time. They were getting old, while they enjoyed living in the small town they felt their life path was headed elsewhere, somewhere other than South Park. They felt it was their last chance to have some fun and make some final memories.
Unfortunately their memories wouldn't be so full, as most of their friends had moved out of South Park. Stan went off to join the newly established Space Force, Wendy had gotten accepted into Harvard, and Kyle moved to a larger city.
Only four of them remained; Kenny, Butters, Cartman, and the New Kid. All four of them had decided against jumping straight into college after high school. The first year after graduation Kenny and Butters went straight to work. Kenny joined his father in construction, Butters went into fast food, Cartman continued to live with his mother, and nobody was quite sure what the New Kid had been doing.
So he had to admit it was odd when out of the bloom the New Kid reached out to them, but Kenny was glad to see the New Kid take the initiative. He was surprised at their choice to play superhero, seeing as he still kept up his heroic activities as Mysterion, albeit not as often as before. Cartman would have joined them, if he hadn't lost all interest in superheroes after he failed to get his franchise plan off the ground.
And so as he finished slipping into his updated costume, which was mostly the same save for wearing his underwear over his pants, Kenny prepared himself for what was most likely his and New Kid's last hang. Returning back he was surprised to find that the New Kid had arrived.
"Mu ha ha ha ha." Laughing aloud Professor Chaos turned towards the approaching hero. "Look who came to stop us, New Kid, Mysterion!"
"Stop us?" A hoarse voice questioned aloud.
"That's right, Butthole has joined me in our endless pursuit of chaos." He gestured to the tin foil hat on their head before patting on their shoulder, Professor Chaos continued. "With them at my side chaos will finally reign!"
"New Kid?" Staring at the Butter's newest ally Mysterion awaited a sign that this was a joke. But of course he got no response, only the New Kid's iconic empty stare. Soon it became clear that for this final time, the New Kid would partner with Chaos.
"I see." Getting into his stance Mysterion prepared himself for the trial ahead. "Don't worry New Kid, I'll break you out of Chaos's control."
"You won't be breaking anyone out of anything." Raising an open palm out Chaos continued. "Let's go Butthole!"
Rushing forward Douchebag arched his right fist back, however as the distance closed Mysterion raised his hand up.
"Woah hold on." Coming to a halt the New Kid stared blankly at him. "Sorry it's just, what were your powers again, it's been so long."
"Doctor Timothy gave them everything, remember?" Professor Chaos answered. "They have all the classes."
"Oh right." Scratching the back of his head Mysterion gave the New Kid an apologetic smile. "Let's just try that again." Resetting their initial position Butters let out a laugh. "Mu ha ha ha. Look who came to us-"
"We don't have to redo everything Chaos." Mysterino cut him off, "Just start us off."
"Huh? Oh ok." Readjusting his cape he raised his hand once again. "Let's go Butthole!" Dashing off once again the New Kid quickly closed the distance between the two. Stopping just a tile away, they began vibrating in place. Swinging their hands together the pace increased until it stopped. The New Kid then began closing the distance once again.
Double Edge. Mysterion noted, instantly recognizing the move. Using the move allows the user to take two turns instead of one, its price being you lose a turn. Finally reaching him the New Kid quickly dashed right through him, delivering a blow to his gut before following up with a drop kick. Being shoved forward Mysterion barely had any time to compose himself before a large blue dragon collided into him which then kicked him back to where he was before.
Slow and a defense drop. Picking himself up he watched as Professor Chaos began his turn. Following his buddy, Professor Chaos stopped right behind them. Raising a palm into the air a sudden dark cloud brewed overhead. "Chaos!" Bringing his hand down a barrage of lighting scorched the area ahead, reaching the Netherborn. Letting out a groan Mysterion felt shocks fill his body as a burning sensation ran through him.
"My turn." Still infected with slow he wasn't able to go as far he could, however he didn't need to. Reaching the spot in front of Douchebag, Mysterion prepared his assault. Starting with a right hook to their face he followed it up with a left uppercut right before twisting his body to land a flying kick to their cheek. Landing he immediately did a backflip before leaping forward and finishing with a high kick to the face.
Even after all this time Mysterion could still kick ass. His self praise was immediately cut off as jolts of electricity bounced around him followed by burning flames dancing along his body.
"Butthole!" Calling after his friend Professor Chaos decided his next move. Bringing his hands together he summoned a bright yellow light in between. Closing his eyes he charged the ball of chaos, making it grow larger and larger until it was ready. Stretching his arms forward he unleashed his Chaos Blast. Bearing the full force of chaos Mysterion held strong, shaking his head afterwards.
"You won't see me coming." Knowing his next move Mysterion disappeared into a purple haze, which passed through the two villains. Stopping right behind Chaos, Mysterion reappeared from the haze, jumping into the air he backhanded Chaos knocking him right into the New Kid. As he landed onto the ground his body was reignited as his shock state activated itself once again.
Realizing it was their turn once again the New Kid produced a pair of knives, throwing them in a perpendicular rotation. Mysterion felt one of knives drive itself into his upper body, prying it off he began to bleed.
Placing himself right behind the New Kid once again, Professor Chaos called upon his Confus-O-Tron, the dastardly contraption rising from the ground, placing Mysterion right in between it. A moment later the machine activated, tasering the hero as he was left shocked and confused.
Taking a step back Mysterion cleared his head. He felt the weight disappear along with the burning sensation. Back with full movement he dashed back, gathering some distance between himself and the New Kid. Once satisfied he pulled his cape over covering himself. Calling upon the purple haze again, he quickly shot his arms forward, having the haze circle Douchebag. "Come here." Tugging on the makeshift rope he pulled the New Kid right to him, finishing with a right hook he dropped their defense.
The battle raged on, as Mysterion withstood both the New Kid's many attacks and Professor Chaos's chaos. It wasn't until he managed to get a good right hook that Professor Chaos was defeated, leaving only him and the New Kid.
"I see Professor Chaos's mind control is stronger than I realized." He eyed the recently placed tin foil hat. "But it's no matter. I'll free you, New Kid." They didn't respond, their famous thousand yard stare being pointed right at him. "Let's end this." With his turn Mysterion closed the distance once more. Getting right in their face Mysterion bent down, drawing his right fist back. A purple haze swirled around him as it grew before it all transferred into his fist, leaving his gloved hand consumed in haze.
With a fire in his eyes Mysterion unleashed his deadly attack, striking the New Kid's stomach. The force of the attack drew the New Kid right off their feet, sending them flying back. As they landed onto the grass their tin foil hat flew right off, landing right besides them.
"That was only going to ever end one way Butthole." Standing on his feet Mysterion gazed at his fallen friend, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. It wasn't until he realized the New Kid was still on the ground did Mysterion start to make his way over. "Oh shit Butthole."
Running over he was joined by Professor Chaos who had rushed over despite his own wounds. "You okay Butthole?" Flanking the New Kid's side they each grabbed an arm and pulled him up. The New Kid didn't respond, simply giving them a weak smile.
"Sorry I guess I overdid it."
"It's ok, Mysterion." Professor Chaos responded, despite a bruising eye he still had his cheerful smile. "We had fun didn't we?"
"Yeah." He answered, letting off a small smile of his own. "We did." Fun, playing superheroes once again was fun. Even if it was just the three of them. For a while Kenny began to doubt if he was allowed to have fun, he was a young adult now who worked all day. He was nineteen, no longer a kid.
To put more on his plate, he had plans to enroll in South Park's community college next semester. He realized that while working gave him some needed experience, if he wanted to make the most of himself then college was his best bet. He had responsibilities to care for and a future to look towards too. Sure he still had fun here and there, and it was nice when Stan or Kyle called. But while they had a goal set in mind Kenny was different, he wasn't sure where his future lies.
All he knew for sure was that he was going to crawl both himself and his sister out of poverty, he was going to become rich one way or another. But as for how, well it was still up in the air. He was so overwhelmed that he forgot to have fun, to just live.
He was forced out of his thoughts when he heard a rumbling coming from beside him. It appeared Butters heard it as well as they both looked at the New Kid, who had their hands covering their stomach.
"New Kid?"
Butthole didn't have time to warn them, perhaps they shouldn't have visited Freemans' Tacos before coming over. With a strong push the New Kid let it rip, filling the area with his toxic gas. It's been so long since they last used their unique abilities, abilities which allowed them to pause, reverse, or fast forward time.
Soon the area cleared, leaving behind an empty view. No signs of three young adults or of anyone having been in Stark's Pond.
One second he was helping the New Kid stand up, the next he wasn't. Instead here he was standing in the middle of a dark alley helping open air. "What the hell?" Dropping his Mysterion voice, Kenny looked at the alley around him. Empty and dark with tall white walls running up and down. Glancing down he found his bag at his feet, rummaging inside he found everything was accounted for.
"New Kid?" Despite the painful awareness that he was alone, he still called out to his friends. "Butters?" Placing his bag on his back he headed towards the lighter end of the alleyway. Upon exiting he froze.
"What?"
It shouldn't have been a surprise considering it was obvious he was no longer at Stark's Pond, but even he couldn't have predicted seeing humanoid animals walking around. Standing just outside the dark alley he took in the sights, humans and animals walking through a market of sorts. Steadily he slipped back into the alley, a neutral expression on his face as he tried to process what exactly happened.
Slumping against the wall he recalled his last moments with the others, the way the New Kid held onto their stomach, the rumbling, and finally the green gas engulfing him. It would seem one of the New Kid's infamous abilities was why he was here, which didn't shock him at all. Hell in fourth grade during their time against Mitch Connor the New Kid not only took them to the past and future, but could also teleport them to random places.
Such as when they confronted Cartman in his room when they traveled to the past, Mitch punched them in the solar plexus. The result, out of Cartman's room and right outside City Hall. Guess his final attack caused something similar to happen, leading him to wherever the hell he was.
But something felt off, besides the fact the New Kid hadn't used his farting abilities for years after he stopped taking his medicine. Whenever they did jump into the future or past they usually wound up exactly where they were. And even if they were displaced it usually was within South Park.
Now maybe he just wasn't paying attention but he failed to recall animal-human hybrids walking around South Park, unless of course this was just another of South Park's many unique occurrences. Having grown up in South Park he was well informed of just how many weird events take place. Perhaps it was due to his Mysterion outfit, but his mind immediately raced to the fiasco that was Cthulhu and the oil spill.
Speaking of Cthulhu, this wasn't his first time being instantly transported to somewhere new. And instead of ending his life to return home just as he did in the Sunken City of R'lyeh, he hadn't forgotten about his friends. It was very likely they themselves were transported along with him, as such there was a good chance they were nearby. Perhaps in a dark alley themselves. So with a sigh, Mysterion began heading deeper in the alleys.
As he did he pulled out his phone, trying to contact them. But alas, no signal. Stuffing his phone back the purple hooded young man ventured through the alleyways, twisting and turning as he kept an eye out for any uniquely dressed super villains. While the alley's were mostly empty, there were a few individuals lurking within. Talking amongst themselves or simply leaning against the walls, the strangers gave him a quick glance and a few looks but kept to themselves. He noted that they were all armed. Not with guns, but swords and knives. He was a little relieved that they all kept to themselves, not bothering to engage with him.
It would be a problem if he died before he found the others.
Not that he would, but when dealing with armed opponents the possibility of death becomes more likely. Besides, he didn't want to deal with the headache of fighting armed adults unarmed himself. The pistol in his bag was only to be used on himself. With these thoughts in mind he continued his search, growing agitated when they still hadn't showed up.
He wasn't sure how long it's been since he began roaming these backalleys but it felt like it's been long enough that the option to blow his brains out wasn't starting to feel too bad. Turning into what he promised would be his last alley the superhero paused.
Further up ahead, a group of men had just finished chaining a girl. With one man holding her in a bind, the other had bonded her hands in rope. The girl tried screaming, however her screams were muffled as they stuffed a rag in her mouth.
Blankly staring at the scene before him, Mysterion carefully dropped his bag. As silently as he could, he made his way over. Only after he was close enough to be unable to suppress his steps did the men in question turn his way.
Five men in total, each larger than the hooded figure before them. They gave each other a look before settling their gaze on the mystery person.
"Let her go." Speaking before they could, he went straight to the point. One of the men, the largest out of them, gave Mysterion a look up and down before glancing at the others and laughing. His allies soon followed suit, each letting out their own hoarse crackle as they found themselves being stared down by a ridiculously looking man.
The mystery man didn't interrupt, as the band of traffickers laughed at his demands he shifted his focus to the bonded girl. Dressed in the torn remains of her outfit, the girl's teary eyes stared right at him, her eyes scarily void. Mysterion glanced at the pair of bunny ears resting atop her head, noting it's twitching. Deciding that her realistic pair of animal ears wasn't important, he went back to staring the men down as their laughter finally died down.
"Scarm," Was all the large man said, as his hand gripped the large knife on his belt's holster. Taking a few steps toward the he brandished his knife. "Or die." To his credit, the newcomer didn't flinch, instead he looked at the girl once again.
"You'll be fine, I promise." None of the five men had time to respond, as immediately after the cloaked figure leaped at the armed thug, suckerpunching him across the face. Following it up with a strike to his knees, Mysterion forced the man to his level.
Grabbing the sides of his face, Mysterion looked him right in the eyes. "Today is the last day of the rest of your life." Unleashing a brutal headbut, Mysterion turned to the remaining four members.
They uttered no words, drawing their knives and cleaves they understood what they had to do.
Knowing he stood a better chance determining the pace of the fight, Mysterion took the initiative. Meeting the second thug halfway, Kenny sidestepped a frontal slash before delivering a gut punch. Taking a short hop backwards he avoided another slash from a supporting thug. Lunging forward he grabbed the third thug's wrist before he could recover, with a crushing grip he pulled him forward, right into a devastating right straight.
Feeling their nose break underneath, Mysterion grabbed the guy's waist and shoved him into the recovering second enemy. Hearing a loud thud he turned his attention towards the two guys up front, one of which charged at him with a sword.
Trusting his reaction speed, Kenny let the man approach and proceeded to thinly weave between his messy swings. While he rarely protected the city as thoroughly as Mysterion anymore, Kenny still kept up a basic schedule of patrolling the nightly streets. Besides caring for the innocents, he wanted to be prepared in case he ever had to protect Karen from armed bullies or perverted thugs. He was used to a street brawl, and especially accustomed to fighting knife wielding douchebags.
And while a sword was understandable different from a knife, a douchebag was still a douchebag. Most barely had any real training or sense for an actual fight, they were easy to read as they all tried slashing away at what was right in front of them.
Having honed his senses from real brawls and make-believe fights from his friends, Kenny effortlessly dodged each sword strike, awaiting for that one moment. Soon enough that moment came, as the man used too much force on one strike forcing him to overextend. Not missing his chance, Kenny closed the gap with one giant step in, as he did he reared his fist back. In conjunction with his step, as he fully stepped in, he let his fist rip, delivering a powerful uppercut knocking the swordsman right on his back.
Looking at his final opponent, he instantly noted the smirk on his face. Without realizing it he had leaped to the side, avoiding a strike to his back. Facing the second idiot, it would seem he finally untangled himself from his broken nose friend and rejoined the fight. Knowing the girl was his priority, he took a second to glance back at the smirked mouth pussy who had been right next to her.
His eyes narrowed as he saw the man grip the girl's chains and begin to turn and flee. Knowing time was the essence he glanced back at his opponent.
"You're gonna wish you stayed down." Surprisingly instead of coming right at him as the thug had expected, Mysterion dashed towards his previous position. Following right after him the thug raised his weapon in the air, however as he swung down a flash of silver ran across his wrist.
With emotionless eyes the thug witnessed as his arm came straight down, blood flying from the tips. He was just barely able to perceive his still armed hand as it landed on the dirty floor with a thud.
"Wished you stayed down yet?" He had just begun to gasp for breaths when the hilt of a short sword struck right between his eyes, sending him to sleep.
With a clang the sword fell to the ground, Kenny having dropped it as he raced towards the final bandit. Running down the alley and turning around a corner he met their retartings forms, but more importantly he met the captor's smug gaze. His smile slowly faded as he realized his allies had all been defeated.
With his objective in reach Kenny pushed himself further, speeding up. It would seem the idea he would eventually catch up finally reached the man as he came to a stop and threw the girl on the floor. Facing the approaching vigilante he gripped his cleaver and horizontally swung away.
He was met with a flying knee to the face as Kenny leaped over the telegraphed attack and correctly punished him for it. As the man reeled back, his free hand immediately clutching his face, did Kenny prepare for the finisher.
Just as he had done earlier today, he started with a right hook to his face. Following it up with a left uppercut, he twisted in the air, gaining the momentum needed to land a flying kick to their cheek before landing back down. Upon touching the floor he did a short backflip, gaining the space to leap forward and finish with a high kick to the face
With a scowl he watched as the larger and more muscular man fell onto his back. Not wasting another moment Kenny strolled right on over, and delivered a curb stomp to his face. Now satisfied he began to shuffle through the man's possessions before he found what he needed.
Making his way over, he gently approached the still bound girl with watery eyes. Bending down to her level, he produced a key. Making sure she got a good look at it before he unlocked her chains. Removing the heavy metal he then threw the shitty key down the dark alley. Taking extra care, he took out a small knife he just looted. Not missing the way the girl flinched he assured her she was going to be fine. Taking hold of her rope bound hands he carefully sliced it into two, grabbing onto it he tossed it away alongside the knife.
Letting the girl take a moment to take in her newfound freedom, he relaxed his eyes. "Are you ok?" She shook her head, knowing she wasn't possibly going to be immediately fine after such a traumatic event he mentally chastised himself before taking a deep breath.
"Did they do anything to you?" She rubbed her wrist and pointed to her discarded chains. "Anything else?" Thankfully she shook her head, rubbing the tears in her eyes.
"Do you have a family?" She nodded. "Do you know how to get home?" She took a look around before shaking her head once again. "Do you know what your house looks like?" Glancing at the floor she nodded.
Letting out a sign the hooded figure turned his back to her, getting down on one knee he gestured to his back. "Get on, I'll help you find your house." The bunny girl was hesitant, despite knowing what just happened she was still very traumatized. Sensing her hesitant Kenny turned back towards her, still on one knee he glanced up at her.
"What's your name?"
Glancing from side to side the girl nervously played with her hands. "Daisy."
He noted her accent. "Nice to meet you Daisy, I am Mysterion." He extended a hand. "Until we get you home, I'll keep you safe. until we get you home. I promise." Silence overcame the two as Daisy met Kenny's gaze. Eventually she slowly reached for his open palm, taking his hand, she nodded.
Giving her a smile Kenny let her go as he presented his back to her again. This time Daisy got on his back, with her arms around his shoulders Kenny gently hoisted her up as his hands secured her. With the piggy back ride complete Mysterion made his way out of the alley, stepping into public street, but not before going back to grab his discarded bag.
Making his way to the center of the busy street he was met with a few looks but was overall ignored.
"You wouldn't happen to be able to find your way from here would you?" Her silence was enough, he could sense her head shake. "Well that's ok, if you see anything familiar let me know."
And with that the two were off, with a bunny child upon his back Kenny walked through the vast town, awaiting any instructions the girl might give. As he did he couldn't help but note once again the vast amount of human hybrids, or demi-humans, he didn't know. While some were clearly more animal than human, there were a fair amount of humans with animal features.
Strangely enough their housing and architecture was new to Kenny, it was old fashioned but neat. He kinda got foreign vibes from it, if the imposing buildings were anything to picture from he would guess it was asian, maybe Japanese?
He hadn't been to Japan many times, save for his few occasions as a princess, but even so he was able to recall a structure or two being familiar to what he was seeing now. But he wasn't here to enjoy the sightseeing, keeping an eye out for any other bastards, the two slowly but surely closed in on her home. Finding a landmark she knew, Kenny dutifully followed her instructions as she led them.
Finally the two stopped upon an vastly impressive house, if you wanted to call it a house. Glancing back at the girl he gestured to the building. "Is this it?"
"Yup." Having warmed up to the caped crusade Daisy nodded, "That's where I live." Taking another look at the building he whistled. He was only able to take a single step forward when the sound of rapidly approaching steps to their right caught his attention.
Running towards him was a moderately average bunny eared man, at his sides were greatly armed personnel. Instead of the knives, cleaver, and sword like those shitbags in the alley used, these men wore armor along with spears and polished swords.
"Daisy!" The man cried, tears in his eyes as he continued to run at their location, his arms out.
"Dad!" Jumping off McCormick's back, Daisy ran towards the man revealed to be her dad. With a small smile Kenny watched as the two crashed into one another, the father engulfing his daughter in a tight hug.
And as touching as the scene was, his smile slowly faded as the guards ran past the duo and straight at him. Swiftly he was encircled as the men pointed their weapons at him. Keeping calm, Kenny was waiting for a moment to explain himself. Thankfully however he wouldn't need to, as Daisy glanced back with wide eyes at what happened, she quickly pried herself away and ran back to her hero.
"Wait!" She cried, holding her hands out at the guards. "Please don't! He saved me!"
"Daisy?" Having joined his paid militia, her father gestured for them to stand down. Looking on with confused eyes he awaited her explanation.
"Well, uh," She hesitated, the memories from earlier coming back in full force. Just as she felt like she was going to faint, a heavy voice called out from behind.
"Daisy," She turned to him, "Take your time, you're going to be ok."
She didn't realize that was just what she needed to hear. Knowing she wasn't in danger anymore, Daisy recomposed herself, taking a few deep breaths. Once she felt ready she faced her father. "Dad, I was… Kidnapped today."
"I know." Her father's eyes had grown teary as well. "I received a letter this morning detailing your capture and ransom. I gathered all my men and swiftly set out to find you. I-" His voice slightly wavered, "I had begun to fear the worst when I received news that you were spotted near our home, I quickly began to search the surrounding area until I found you here."
Closing the distance as he spoke her father kneeled just before her. "I'm beyond relieved to find you here, to have you in my arms is enough. If you wish we lay down our arms we shall."
"Thank you Dad," Resting her head on his shoulder she returned his embrace. "But I still want to explain." Breaking their hug she took a step back and held an arm out towards Mysterion.
"I was kidnapped, but this man here rescued me." With composure far above her years, Daisy turned to the armed guards. "Before they could hide me away this man here showed up and defeated my kidnappers, freeing me. Then after he accompanied me back, ensuring my safety." As she finished her composure faded, as she reverted back to a pleading little girl. "So please, don't hurt him."
Having already stood down at their boss's request, the guards fully withdrew their weapons at the daughter's request. Kenny for his part didn't react, but damn if her speech didn't touch him too. If he held a weapon he was certain he would have withdrawn it as well.
Now free to look as Daisy held her father in another embrace, he was beginning to see things he had previously ignored. Despite the tattered state of her dress, it was obviously a heavily decorated outfit with brilliant embroidery that was made of highly excellent fiber. She also wore a necklace around her neck which bore a single purple gem. Her long hair was shiny and silky, a sign of high maintenance. He glanced at her house again.
Damn, did I just help a rich girl?
Not that it mattered if she was rich or not, he would have still saved her either way. But it would be a first if he did. He didn't dwell on it too long as her father had made his way towards him with Daisy in hand.
"Young man thank you," Giving McCormick a deep bow he continued. "Thank you for saving my daughter from those fiends. Please allow me to repay you."
"I appreciate the thought but that won't be necessary." He shook his head to the now standing dad. "I didn't save your daughter for a reward."
To Kenny's surprise the man seemed shocked to hear that. But he guessed it made sense, if they are rich then saving her for some cash or reward was probably what most rich parents would expect. Fortuenly for him Kenny's moral code wouldn't allow him to be gifted.
The father grew out of his stumper. "Even if that wasn't the case I cannot allow my daughter's savor to go unrewarded."
"If you want to reward me then keep a closer eye on her from now on." Having said his peace Kenny tightened the grip on his bag and turned to leave. He had only taken a couple of steps when a small tug on his cape stopped him.
"You're leaving?" Faced with a teary eyed Daisy, Mysterion kept his neutral expression up.
"Sorry kid but I've got to go. I told you I'd return you home safe right?" She nodded. "Well I kept up my promise, and now I've got to find my friends."
"Your friends are missing?"
"They're not missing, we just got separated." Not technically a lie, he thought. "It's been a while now so I better get going, they're probably out looking for me too."
"If you'd like I can send some of my men to help you search." Joining the conversation Daisy's father grabbed her daughter's shoulder.
"It's fine, I can find them on my own." Noticing her hand still on his cape, Kenny set a hand atop her head. "You're going to be safe now. You won't have to worry about them taking you anymore."
"How do you know!" Squeezing her eyes shut and tilting her head down she shouted back, clutching his cape. "How do you know they won't take me again!"
"Because I'm here." Her grip softened as she turned her attention upward. "As long as they live they won't forget that ass kicking. They probably think I work for your father, and as long as they believe that they won't try that shit again." He failed to mention that they would probably target him first before trying another attempt on her, but did she really need to know?
Gently rubbing her head he pried her hand off. "And besides, your father's going to make sure you're safe."
"But of course." He father reached for her recently freed hand. "They won't take you ever again."
Taking advantage of distraction, Mysterion turned away and put some more distance between the two. Once he felt he was far enough he turned back one last time, "Take care."
Daisy watched as he fully disappeared from sight. "You too."
Standing in a now deserted alley, Kenny sighed. It was a little stupid maybe, but the girl's fear got to him more than he would like to admit. And so after departing from her large mansion, instead of continuing his search as he said he decided to go back to the alley. He hoped to instill a fear even greater than they gave the girl, so much that should they ever have a single thought about her they would piss themselves.
And while he did eventually make it back, he had spent the rest of day trying to figure out his way back. It's not like they reached Daisy's house in one go, they made many detours and turns just trying to find it. So when he retraced his steps it all became one great confusing roundabout before he recognized a familiar street.
As the moon laid high above the sky, Mysterion ventured back into the alley's before coming across the sight of his fight. Blood still soaked the walls and floor but unfortunately the bodies were missing. It would seem they managed to regain consciousness and made the good judgement to get the fuck out of there before he came back.
Well, there was little he could do now. It wasn't like he could actually hunt them down, being in an unknown city and all. Just as he set out of exit, footsteps echoed to his left. A group of armed men sneered as they made their way towards him. With narrowed eyes Mysterion greeted this new group, the darkness of the night making it difficult to get a clear look at their faces.
And while he couldn't recognize most of them, he did recognize one. The last man he beat into a pulp, the one who tried to flee with Daisy in hand. Funnily enough he was the only human of the group too, as the rest of his friends were all more animal-like. He was currently standing at the front speaking hastily to someone, the leader of this group he wagered.
The crocodile-like leader calmly listened, closing his eyes as he scratched his chin, engulfing his subordinate story. "I see," He finally said as his grunt finished talking, his voice deep and hoarse. "So you're the one who ruined our plan."
"Yeah, and?" At least they did him the favor of coming to him. Now Mysterion can put the fear of God into them.
"And that is something I cannot just stand. We planned very hard for today see, and I'm not too thrilled to hear some puny purebred in a half assed costume put a stop to it."
Hey, his Mysterion costume wasn't half assed. He actually put a lot of thought into it. Maybe if he still had his underwear on top of his pants he would realize how much he improved it.
"As you can see I'm very upset, so much that the only way I could feel any better is to dye these piss stained walls in your blood."
"Edgey much?" His quip seemed to silent him, "I mean that was fucking lame. Couldn't come up with a cooler line?" Getting into his stance Mysterion watched as the crocodile man rubbed his forehead.
"Kill him." At his word his grunts rushed forward, he couldn't get a good count but it looked as if they numbered ten in total.
"Wrong day to piss off an immortal future college student." Wanting the final line, Mysterion met their charge. Jumping onto the wall to his right, he leaped off it and kicked the leading thug square on the cheek, sending him flying back into his allies. Of course he didn't manage to knock them all down, like a spare in bowling one of the bandits hadn't fallen down. With surprising speed he got right into the bandit's face, catching him off guard Mysterion launched an uppercut.
The bandit's last sight was that of the stars, as Mysterion followed up with a straight to the chest. Crashing against the wall the thug slumped, as Mysterion turned his attention to the recovering pins. Two more unarmed grunts tried their luck, but their teamwork was more of a detriment than a plus. Kenny dodged their uncoordinated punches before leaping up and grabbing a side of their faces, digging his hands into their heads he forcefully brought them together. A loud thud was heard as the two men crumpled to the floor.
Back on his feet Kenny leaned back, just avoiding a slash to his chest. His armed opponent huffed in frustration before firing a volley of untrained swings in an attempt to draw blood. His efforts were rewarded however, as Mysterion graciously delivered a punch to his nuts. Immediately the bandit drew his free hand over to clutch his precious pearls, this did nothing more than give his opponent a free shot at his face.
Knocking him back Kenny managed to pry his sword from his hands, using it to block the incoming cleave strike. Sweat began to drip down his head as he exchanged blows with his new foe, his opposition's bigger frame giving them an advantage. Kenny wasn't too worried however, as a mistimed downward strike gave Kenny the opportunity to slice his hand off. Not letting up he followed up with a leg sweep, causing the now one handed animal hybrid to crash onto the ground.
With sword still in hand Mysterion faced against the remaining five. Two wielding swords, one knife, one cleaver, and one with an axe. Kenny eyed the cleaver user, the human who tried to kidnap Daisy gritted his teeth in response.
The first to respond was the one with the knife, as he dashed forward trying to land a quick blow. Of course Mysterion was more than able to react, blocking his slash Mysterion unleashed his own sword strikes. Now, he wasn't well versed in the art of swordplay, but he was just skilled enough to draw multiple sights of blood across his knife wielding foe, who tried to weave between the strikes. In the end Kenny caught him off guard as he aimed a strike right into his foot, frimley planting both the sword and the enemy in place. The thug could barely scream before a haymaker shut him up.
Seeing his foe now weaponless, the axe brute tried his luck. With one great leap he closed the distance between the two, and with great power he cleaved right where Kenny stood. A dust storm stirred up, blocking the remaining three views as the dark night hid the shadows within. Soon the dust settled and what remained was a standing Kenny, standing atop a downed giant. More sweat ran down Kenny's face as he took deep breaths, actions not missed by his three opponents.
The two sword users suddenly rushed at him, hoping to take advantage of the hero's clear exhaustion. However this would end tragically as one of the humanoid animals was met with a knife to the eye. With battered breaths Mysterion looked on with his hand outstretched as the thrown knife embedded itself within, causing his opponent to scream in agony as he took a few steps back before stumbling to the ground.
He had hoped the other thug would have been still occupied with the fate of his ally, but unfortunately he didn't seem to care as he quickly turned and faced him. Stopping just outside his range Kenny avoided a diagonal slash, and with a cautious lunge foward he baited the thug into a horizontal slash only to duck underneath it. Glancing at the arm overhead, Mysterion grasped the swordsman's wrist with one hand and crashed his other palm onto the man's elbow forcing it upwards.
The result was a terrifying crackling sound as the thug dropped his sword, a painful cry rang out which was abruptly cut as Mysterion sent his chin up with a rising palm. The final opponent, the scumbag kidnapper looked on in shock as his last comrade crumpled underneath his feet, revealing a fully standing Kenny setting his deadly glare right at him.
Fear began to fill him, as a vengeful Mysterion eyed his heavily bandaged face. "Run, or would you rather disfigure your face for life." Mysterion warned. The pain that had lingered within him came back full force, and with wide eyes the man dropped his weapon before turning tail. Kenny couldn't help the small satisfied smirk at seeing him run, but a moments later his smirk would drop as a spray of blood filled the air.
Mysterion looked on as the man who had tried to flee was cut right down the middle, his culprit staring at him in disappointment. "It's hard to find some good men these days, always running at the first sight of danger."
With a wave of his wrist, the supposed boss flung the remaining blood off his jewel embedded saber. Taking out a black cloth, the man began to clean his weapon. "Honestly, I expect them to put in some effort with the amount I pay them." Continuing to run his cloth along the blade he eyed the hero.
"Say kid, why don't you come work for me. I know we've started off on a bad foot but I'm willing to put that behind me. With a guy like you working for me I can put my mind at ease." He finished cleaning his blade as he set his rag away. "It's better than dying here."
Kenny scoffed, "Sorry, but not only are you missing a pair of fat tits and smooth ass. I would never work for a child kidnapping fuck like yourself."
Crocodile shook his head, "A shame, I could've gotten you a woman that fit your standards." Raising his saber he surprisingly sheathed it. "I've got to say it's been a while since anyone dared speak to me with such words, if it wasn't for my rising anger I would have complimented your spirit." Gently he set his weapon against the wall. "Unfortunately for you the stress I've acquired from my botched plan and ambush can only be satisfied by tearing you limb from limb personally."
Croc, he mentally dubbed him, rose to his full height, a towering man beast as he flexed both his muscles and hands. His white claws shimmered in the dark along with his brightening sharp flesh tearing fangs he called teeth. But most scarily was his use of fancy words and complex sentences.
Taking in a deep breath Mysterion raised his fist, staring the monster down. "I'd like to see you try, if your men are any indication of your skill this'll be over in a matter of moments."
He laughed. "If my men were even a fraction of my skill then perhaps your cockiness would be valid. However you're right in one aspect, this will be over in a matter of moments." As he finished Mysterion lost sight of him. He didn't know why but he thought the damn crocodile would be slower, given his frame he had expected middling speed at best. But as his mind barely registered the soaring open jawed beast leaping right at him, he had only one word in mind.
Shit.
Barely jumping back in time, the sound of powerful jaws snapping shut suggested his successful escape. However the sight of deadly claws swiping right at him suggested his success would be for naught if he didn't immediately move again. Leaping back a second time Kenny locked eyes on the beast, even as his hand leaned down and freed the knife from the previously defeated thug's eye. While his first dodge was purely instinct, he had calculated his second to land him right this precise bandit. His plan worked as he held the knife in his hands, he had a feeling he fucking needed it to win this fight.
"A smart choice," His opponent complimented, "But fruitless in the end." Swiping his claws once again, Mysterion continued to fall back. After the fourth failed attempt Croc seemed to come to realization, stopping his fifth swipe the beast jumped into the air once again. Kenny just managed to jump out of the way as the beast chomped at his after image. Turning around, the hero faced his killer opponent.
"Tried to run, did you?" Croc mocked, noticing the ever widening distance Mysterion had subtly added between each failed attack. "I didn't picture you as a coward, but it's too late to run now." Kenny frowned, still gripping the knife in hand, he scanned his surroundings. "Look all you want, nothing will save you."
Lunging at him, the human beast managed to draw blood. Gleeing at the blood dripping from his claws, Kenny pressed his free hand against his now torn green M. the brat looked as if he was holding a shield against his chest, Croc let out a laugh before attacking once more, scratching Mysterion's occupied arm. "Seems your endurance has finally reached its limit, while my men failed their initial objective they at least had the courtesy of making this easier on me."
Croc continued his flurry of swipes, landing more and more injuries on the hooded hero. Indeed with a hand still against his chest Kenny endured more and more pain. Weaving as best as he could, Mysterion just managed to avoid a deadly blow. As this exchange continued to progress however, Croc began to notice a few things.
First, despite his arm and frontal body being riddled with claw marks, Mysterion kept his bloodied arm against his chest. This was peculiar for it wouldn't be too long before his arm suffered too much and gave in, which would then become a hindrance. Or in the worst event he finally managed to tear it off, then at that point the blood loss would be too much.
The second, while his masked opponent grimaced in pain his eyes did not match his pained expression. Indeed, instead of despair at his inevitable death the young man's gaze was focused. As if he somehow still had a plan.
Finally, and most importantly, as he began to have these thoughts he noticed that he was no longer drawing blood. As his bloodied claws continued their barrage, they eventually drew nothing but dark fabric. And soon they hit nothing but air.
The beast's eyes narrowed at this revelation, even as he continued his flurry he continued to strike nothing. But how could that be, not only had this brat lost a decent amount of blood, his stamina was drained by his skirmish against his ten men. He eyed the halved man lying in a pool of blood.
Nine men.
And he hadn't gotten any faster, if anything he was just a little slower than he had previously shown. So then why was he failing to land not only a killing blow, but anything at this point.
Mysterion couldn't help the small smirk forming on his lips as he noticed his opponent's frustration. It was gutsy, but it looked like his plan had finally paid off.
It all began at their first exchange. He would never admit it but deep inside he was terrified. Not so much that he was fighting a huge human crocodile, but more so the fact at his opponent's speed. He had lost track of a fucking giant crocodile man goddamn it, it was solely due to his instincts that his body jumped away from the deadly chomp. And while he already had in mind he needed to grab a weapon, his second dodged was partly instinctual as well. Partly luck and partly due his need of a weapon did he leap to the knife's location.
It was clear if he wished to win, that he could not continue to rely solely on instinct, he needed to get used to and comprehend this damn croc's speed.
And so he decided he wouldn't strike, what he needed was to let the beast take the offense. All the while he survived long enough to not fully comprehend his speed, but also be made aware of his attack patterns to the point he could faithfully dodge before the monster even launched his attack. As he was he would not be able to react, not only was he not normally fast enough to react even if he was fully healthy, he was losing speed as the fight went on. Knowing he needed not only all the speed he could muster, but the capability to dodge, Mysterion kept his legs in check.
While the slash against his chest was unexpected, he used it to his full advantage. Placing a hand against it he had fully bought the damn monster into his act. Knowing his opponent's bloodlust would keep him attacking his chest and arms, he kept the croc's focus off his legs.
The other major part of his game plan revolved around the knife in his uninjured hand. Besides needing to become able to avoid his opponents deadly appendages, Kenny needed to be able to land a deadly attack of his own. This is where the knife comes into play. Now Kenny McCormick was no god damn biologists, but he had enough common sense to know his fists wasn't going to critically injure a fucking crocodile. Nor was he willing to test a full force blow against crocodile hide, so he acquired himself the knife as soon as possible.
Now the other problem was the amount of force needed to penetrate his opponent's skin. While it would certainly take a fair amount, the young man knew he had the ability to do so. But he also knew his ability lied in the amount of strength his arm could muster. If he tried to stab through Croc's jaw with a mangled arm, chances are he wasn't going to plunge it deep enough to flinch the damn guy.
And so just like his legs, Kenny kept his armed hand safe. Keeping it just behind his back, McCormick let his other arm suffer. At times the unbearable pain was enough where he had the mind to say fuck it and let his other arm take over for just a second, but thankfully his sound mind forbade him. Reminding him there would be no hope if he did.
And so Mysterion suffered on, not allowing his opponent the satisfaction of a pained cry. In the end his patience was rewarded, as he cleanly weaved between the last few strikes he could finally begin to see how the beast would attack next. But it wasn't enough, he needed to just hold a little bit more until he could land a fatal blow. He would only get one shot after all, if his knife didn't go deep enough or if he stabbed him half haphazardly, say his stomach, he would most certainly not get the chance to try again.
Also while he mentioned the attack needing to be fatal, in reality he just needed it to be near fatal. He didn't mind killing a scumbag like this, but truth be told Kenny didn't enjoy taking a life. His curse played a large part into this, dying again and again he kinda had a good grasp at what it's like to die. Pain like that fucking hurt. Besides, he wasn't really a killer, just a vigilante who kicked serious ass.
Croc's open frustration soothed the hooded hero, as he knew bloody frustration like his would lead to an opening sooner or later, he just had to wait. Soon he was proved right, predicating an overly emotional swipe, Mysterion managed to slip right by the attack and get right between the beast's chest and extended arm. With no hesitation Kenny gripped the knife in hand, and with all the strength at his disposal he jammed the blade right through the beast's lower mandible.
His plan worked, his healthy arm allowed him to cleanly channel his remaining strength as his knife tore through the armor, through his lower jaw, tongue, and come right out through his upper jaw. Satisfied at his opponent's sudden halt, he took a few steps back believing it was over. Unfortunately a giant fist rocketed into his gut, sending him flying back. With excruciating pain Mysterion withered on the ground, arching his back as he set his now weaponless hand against his stomach.
A gruntle cry caused him to look forward, as the thug's leader forcefully pulled the knife out, launching it against the wall with a powerful throw. "You fucking bastard!" Letting out a disgruntled cry the beast menacingly made his way over, his powerful legs shaking the ground beneath. Kenny watched as the beast towered over him, a hand clamped over his jaw as the other clenched at his side. The college student let out a sharp exhale as a foot stomped on his stomach. Keeping him in place the boss leaned down, his face mere inches from his own.
"I'm going to fucking enjoy this." Opening his bloodied mandible he threatened to a slow painful death. Fortunately the sound of rapidly approaching footsteps caused him to stop. Staring down the alley, he witnessed multiple armored men appear around the corner. With great regret he looked down at the pinned McCormick, a vengeful grin on his face.
"While I won't have the pleasure of slowly crushing your brain into mush, at least I'll know you'll have died by my hands." Raising his leg he powerfully smashed it back down, a loud crackling noise ringing out. "Have fun in death, brat." Taking another glance at the approaching men, Croc turned around and fled. Grabbing his saber Mysterion watched as he disappeared down the other end of the alley.
With the last of his strength leaving, Kenny turned his gaze upwards. His chances of survival were stomped short with that departing attack, the claw marks were already enough but with a cracked rib there was no way he was going to live.
Fuck, he was going to die once again.
With painful breaths, Kenny willed himself to stare at the night sky as long as he could. The sounds of shouts were distorted, and his hazy vision was obscured as masked individuals appeared overhead. He remembered these helmets, they were what Daisy dad's guards wore.
He felt his body being lifted, as the guards tried to stabilize his injuries. He appreciated the thought but their efforts were futile. Soon he felt his eyes begin to droop, as his remaining will slowly vanished.
Gradually his awareness faded, as his vision darkened alongside his closing eyes. Finally the world turned black, as he felt the familiar coldness of death envelop him.