AN: I realize that I haven't made this warning yet. Considering its rating, this story is not exactly kid-friendly. Just to warn you all that there's something a bit more graphic at the start of the chapter, so read at your own risk.
Chapter 3 - Here Comes the Big Guns
Lou watched in disbelief at the prisoner whimpering from the new scratch on the cheek. The salty smell was only faint, but it was too powerful for him to process. What he saw added to his overwhelming interpretation of the prisoner hanging by a chain.
A splatter of blood was already stained on her chin, leaving dried spots on the ground below. A new fresh paint of blood above the darkened red stains below her. But where that came from was unknown. It was a little hard as the prisoner wore a tattered black jumper, hiding any new wounds underneath it.
"Now this here, son, is how you should let them know that you're at the top of their game," said a booming, deep voice. It echoed throughout the hallway, drowning out any of the whimpers Lou could hear. "To be feared would mean to be given from what you need to do."
Lou nearly dared look behind. But he refrained from doing so. He did hear, but coming down here didn't prepare him for the worst to come. His mother never let him, but his father thought it was a good idea to show him his latest tortures on his captives. His booming voice subsided, but it left an impact on Lou; the sick pleasure from the creepy underground where unfortunate souls were left to die.
"So, how about you try on this one?" The voice was relating to a prisoner who appeared the most battered. "He'll be out of hair once we extract the information he has. You know what he did."
Lou stared at the poor prisoner. He looked like he was around his age. This prisoner appeared to be a child. The young shark shivered, trying not to close his eyes in case the moment came quickly.
This person nearby was only confused and lost about what he got into. The only rough spots on his face were the bruises received lately. His face was dirty in tears, crying for days. His watery, weary eyes told Lou that he didn't want to die, especially by one who saw him as nothing but cannon fodder.
Even if the kid knew something, Lou didn't want to hurt him. In fact, he didn't have the heart to taunt these prisoners.
Lou's voice was barely a whisper, but he hoped it could be a good start.
"Let him go," he muttered.
The voice behind him suddenly took a drop in tone. "Excuse me?"
Lou gulped, feeling the pride of his father replaced by an opposite force he feared. "We should just ask him nicely and maybe give him something in exchange. Then, we'll have him exiled from our ship."
Lou thought that his idea would work after a few seconds of silence. This proved to be useless.
"If we do let him go," snarled the booming voice, his disgust undeniable in the room he ruled over. "Then that means he would lead the others to hear. Letting one escape would encourage a rebellion."
"But we can show that we are not a threat," suggested Lou. "Then, they won't be after us anymore."
The booming voice behind him sighed, his footsteps following to fill in his silent disapproval. This larger and dominant figure pushed Lou gently to the side, quite slowly as well, since he could barely hear his shoes moving when shifted away. But the younger shark was more concentrated on the noises of his father.
More specifically, when he heard the unmistakable, sharp SHING of his father's long sword pulled out from his belt. It could easily represent a katana, but it didn't matter.
The prisoner's eyes widened, realizing what this meant. He tried to open his mouth, but all that came out was pathetic squeaks after his vocal cords were cracked too many times. All he could do was squirm around helplessly, but the chains holding him upwards refused to let him go. Fresh new tears poured down the child's face. This was the first time Lou saw real fear in the fate of death.
"A shark never shows mercy. Put your guard down and they'll find a way to fight back."
Lou couldn't believe what he was seeing just as the katana swung and the boy in chains let out a cry of agony.
In reality, Shark was already trying to wrestle the knife out of the rabid coyote's hands. The crowd regained their previous cheer, but it was just an illusion of the game they expected. The other Bad Guys could only watch as the snarling Shark tried to pull the knife out of the coyote's hands. If one looked closely, Shark was close to tears.
"Let go!" shouted the coyote. "Let me go!"
Shark only growled deeper yet it was weaker than the booming crowd around them. Eventually, he wrenched the knife free out of the coyote's hand and pushed him down.
"JUST STAY DOWN!" shouted the giant shark. "THIS ISN'T WHAT WE'RE SUPPOSED TO BE DOING!"
Eventually, Shark's mad blindness sent the knife flying across the room. His strength in his throw was high enough to catch the attention for everyone. The neon lights caught a shine on the blade, highlighting the blood spots on it.
Everything went in slow motion as everybody watched in curiosity. A few quickly tried to get out of the way, noticing it might crash into them once it landed. However, there was one particular boar at the table with a bucket of fried chicken and he did not see the knife coming towards him.
SLICK!
Baron let out a cry of horror as the knife stabbed into his futuristic wheelchair. Those around him screamed in fear or shock, stepping away at the thought of a bleeding. But it was quite the opposite once they registered the knife stuck in the wheelchair. Electricity from it snapped circuits spewed out from the gap made, causing the wheelchair to tremble and its rocket pipe exhausters from below to sputter.
Like a mattress spring, the wheelchair suddenly pounced upwards, crashing the head of the unfortunate Baron into the ceiling above.
By the time he and his wheelchair returned to gravity, the wheels popped out from their bolts. A low hissing sound exhaled from the stab hole made in his wheelchair. A long bump formed on Baron's head, but it wasn't enough to knock him out. After a few seconds of shock, it turned into anger towards the culprit.
Who would be dumb enough to throw a knife across the club?
As if he didn't know.
He slowly turned to the Bad Guys, staring at him with sheepish grins. Shark was the exception, realizing his mistake. If there was anything more scarier than the sight of blood, then it was Baron losing his anger. The original owner of the knife just held onto the scratch on his floor, slowly slithering away to avoid the drama.
And nothing would stop his way when he was angry.
"Well, well, well, well, well…" said Baron, sounding more unhinged than usual. He lifted a fried chicken wing…and when he bit it down, he even ate half of the BONE. "Looks like I might as well have to finish this night with FIVE murders here and have them here as evidence of who was running this club."
That sounded worse than being arrested on the spot.
There was a stare showdown between Baron Hoggust and the Bad Guys. It was completely silent. Everybody watched, finding this quite intense. This might mean it could be the main show after all! However, the Bad Guys didn't want to be here for long, so they would need to get out of here right now.
Somebody was starting to play on his guitar, whistling a little melody. Fitting for a showdown between two of the greatest crime organizations in the world!
CRACK!
Oops, never mind. Baron just grabbed the guitar and slammed it to the ground, breaking it into many pieces. The guitarist screamed and ran off.
"Oh, w-we're sorry about that, I was hoping that we-SMOKE BOMB!" yelled Piranha, pulling out a white ball.
[Elevator Girl (English Version) - BABYMETAL]
[0:13]
Slamming it to the ground, the air was thick in blue powder. Everybody panicked, trying to run for the exits. A couple of them bumped into each other, proceeding into a push-off between each other. Meanwhile, a blinded Baron pushed those in his way aside, racing around the club to find his prey. At the same time, a couple of his men wearing the same jacket joined in his hunt.
They were slow to realize that the Bad Guys were already making a run for it. Fleeing through the alleyway, money notes were hovering behind them from Shark's and Piranha's arms. Their embraces were filled with ridiculous amounts of money.
"What just happened?!" shouted Webs, latching onto Shark.
"I froze, alright?!" exclaimed Shark.
"You froze?! You looked like you woke up from a coma!"
"I-I don't know what got over me! I'm sorry!"
"It's fine!" reassured Snake. "Right now, get back into the daylight!"
Yelling could be heard behind them. The provoked fight club attendees were catching up to them. It seemed like they turned their attention towards them to blame for the smoke.
"I knew it was a bad idea coming here!" said Wolf.
"At least we didn't lose a lot of money!" pointed out Piranha.
"At least we didn't win in any round!" remarked Shark, trying to lighten the mood.
"This actually looks like a jackpot!" piped up Snake. "We needed to do complicated heists with all this money?"
"Guys, this is NOT the time now!" snarled Webs.
"Exactly!" agreed Wolf.
"But look at how much they have!" insisted Snake. "This could be another easy way to get more! We'll be out of here before anyone finds us!"
That proved wrong when they found the streets flooded with police cars. On the first sighting of red and blue lights, the Bad Guys immediately screeched to a stop. Their eyes were in the shape of large pies.
This wasn't going to end well.
Several cops dressed in blue surrounded them, gritting their teeth as they formed a barrier. Even the TV news crew arrived to report the scene.
Amongst the cops, a witness pulled Chief Luggins into the scene.
[0:45 - Pause]
"There it is! This is the…" the witness trailed off, dumbfounded by the appearance of five animals. "...Bad Guys?"
Chief Luggins couldn't believe what she was seeing as well. "You got to be kidding me! I never thought that you would resort to THIS!"
The Bad Guys realized what the police were seeing them as. They looked back at the amount of cash Piranha and Shark were holding. Wolf could only grin nervously, hoping they wouldn't assume too quickly. The last thing they needed was another humiliating trip to the police office.
"It's not what it looks like," he claimed.
[Resume at 0:45]
Followed by an angry mob of EVERYONE from the fight club bursting right out of the alley and seconds away from tackling the Bad Guys to the ground. They all screamed in unison at the top of their lungs, right before they were utterly pinned down.
"We are live where police found the latest venue of the infamous San Diego's Juice and Booze Competition," reported Tiffany, speaking at the camera held at her, oblivious to the all-out war behind her. "And I, Tiffany Fluffit, is the first to report the scene. It looks like the Bad Guys are also included in this as well We haven't received word about why they are here, but we can all agree that they contribute to one of the most illegal fight clubs in the States!"
The growing dust cloud of chaos was already formed, complete with heads, feet and fists poking out from the brawl. Some of them were screaming in rage of fear. Some of them were laughing or crying. But you could hear the Bad Guys NOT enjoying this. By some miracle, Webs found herself still alive upon rolling out from the cloud. She wasn't tackled yet!
Sort of. A hand poked out and tried to grab her. Yelping, she scurried away, hugging the stunned Luggin's foot.
"Please just arrest us now," she whimpered. "Please!"
But Luggins wasn't paying attention, scraping one foot like a bull.
"Oi!" she yelled. "What do you think you're doing punching each other, you criminals? That's my job!"
In the background, Baron just arrived to see the giant cloud of violence in front of him.
"Oh, c'mon!" he yelled, stomping his foot. "I was just about to get them!"
And thus, she and Baron charged forwards, joining the brawl.
Webs gulped to herself. The only comfort was one cop approaching her, awkwardly trying to ask her some questions. Could this day get any worse?
[1:12 - End of Song]
And just like that, the whole violence became a blur as the Bad Guys found themselves in the jail cells of the local police department. They would have to wait until the cops could decide if it was worth chucking them back into a high-security prison. At least this place didn't look too grim this time around. Just bright white walls and bright lights to not feel bad.
"Well," said Webs, crossing her arms. "That went well."
At the moment, she, Piranha and Shark were stuck in one cell, watching from the window. The guard nearby was shaking his head.
"I knew you would end up being arrested," he muttered, a look of casual annoyance. "But I never thought of THIS quick."
"We kind of got caught away in that fight club," admitted Shark.
Piranha looked through the window, spotting Wolf and Snake. "Oh! Hi, chicos!"
On the other side, Wolf and Snake were squashed against the window. Really. Their cell had nearly everyone from the fight club, squeezed together. Wolf was pouting at the lucky trio in the opposite cell, his arms crossed as he tried to make himself comfortable. Snake had the same ordeal, his face planted against the window and sandwiched between it and Wolf's chest.
"I don't know about you," said Snake, his voice muffled. "But this is kind of weirdly satisfying."
"Easy for you," grumbled Wolf, trying his best not to think about the squishy sensation of pressing against some sweaty guy's back.
Fortunately, they wouldn't last long in the jail cells. And it wasn't just because the police would eventually let go of the people who only visited the fight club.
[Bulls on Parade - Rage Against the Machine]
[0:00]
At the waiting room of the local police station, a certain red fox waited patiently at the seats, not caring to look back at the surprised visitors around her or listen to the music playing from the reception office radio. The governor was well aware that she came in without her bodyguards, but she didn't want to make her visit appear threatening to her fellow Bad Guys.
No, she only needed a moment with them. It was unlucky for her to be in the spot of a few eyes staring at her, but she knew that they would only become blurry in the background. After all, her experience with the Bad Guys helped teach them not to care about the high attention received from the public of LA.
I nearly forgot! The roll-call for the crew isn't complete yet! Here's the classy, well-respected Governor Diane Foxington. Mysteriously, the Crimson Paw in her old days. With her on our side, she provides the needed support to kick us back right on track in society. However, today, she has something more interesting to hand over to us.
Diane couldn't believe that the Bad Guys got caught this easily, granted accidentally since they DID try to escape from a fight club. Two out of the five who visited there didn't want to stick around anyway. She was grateful that the chief decided to let them go with only charges as a firm warning.
If anything, they would have been there in a quick need for money and entertainment. Or someplace to chill at. Those who were part of the club community or in charge of helping out the club would be questioned.
It had been a while since she bumped into the Bad Guys. She dated Wolf for a while, but things only became complicated when it involved Snake. Diane wouldn't really mind if Snake could tag along, but it was clear they didn't share the same sentiment. In the end, she let those two be together as a couple, only calling her over for some dates.
Diane already had her interest in other men, especially foxes. Though, there was a sense of bittersweetness. She remembered how difficult she was when she tried to know the Bad Guys more. From nearly falling as Marmalade's comrade to discovering Wolf's worst secrets without consent. A part of her felt that her responsibilities held her back.
Her solo mercenary business was also growing much slower than she expected. So much for being sentimental. Slow, but at least manageable. And as much as she wished to team up with the Bad Guys, she didn't have the time to participate in a heist, mission or whatever they did. Other than text messages and fancy dinner parties, she had been more busy with the government house and the other politicians at the council table.
In fact, the reason why her mercenary business came short was due to it becoming more strongly linked with the task she was provided today.
The fox's ears perked up when she heard yelling. A woman covered in mud was carried into the station by a disgruntled police cop. As they passed by her, a small, familiar bug flew behind them, stopping to watch the reunion of the exes happening in full vision.
"That's why you never break up with your girlfriend, big guy," said Mr. Hornet, wiping his forehead. "Man, I wonder how much power they have to use for things like that."
And rounding up the crew, Mr. Hornet! Honorable member of our crew and our main lookout. Spy and rising detective in the criminal department for his own cases to prevent real danger. The little guy with the eyes of an eagle can spot anything suspicious that might need to be picked up. He probably knows every spot and location as much as Diane knows her surroundings.
He was about to start coming up with a theory why the cop's ex targeted him in the first place when he spotted Diane. The colors of her clothes were significantly different than before. Her grey blazer and trousers lost its blueish hint. The white shirt was replaced with a black collared shirt, devoid of a tie.
Diane noticed that Hornet looked a bit differently. While still wearing his usual shirt, he added a few more accessories to his look. One golden ring on his tiny thumb of his left hand and another golden ring on his right, longer antenna.
And oh, almost forgot. I don't think Hornet and Diane always see things eye-to-eye. Hornet isn't a fan of Diane. They're on different sides of the law after all.
"Diane?" said Hornet, raising an eyebrow. "What are you doing here?"
"The Bad Guys harassed the village and I need to bail them out before the zookeeper comes in," said Diane jokingly. "Just kidding, I heard the news that they ended up exposing a fight club by accident."
Hornet huffed as he flew closer to the fox. "Yeah, sure. Like that happened. They're ot gonna be in there for long, right?"
"Chief is letting them go alongside those who just visited the club," explained Diane, shrugging. "From what I've heard, certain people, such as Baron Hoggust, will be staying here for some…questioning. They're the members of the club, not the casual customers."
Hornet nodded, nearly coming close to rest on Diane's shoulder. "As expected. Baron should have ditched his membership club before he spent all his money on it."
"Doesn't he usually take things? Like just taking money from the bank?"
"A big guy like him? A bit of a slimeball. Even put me and the others in danger once!"
"It might not have been too hard," said Diane, remembering back to that one time when the Zombie Gang invaded the Bad Guys. "You guys came out alive."
"Barely. If you want to know how it feels to be swatted, I can demonstrate."
Diane had a thought about it. "And I have already smashed into many walls that broke my muzzle before."
"But your muzzle is a bit small," pointed out Hornet. "It couldn't be possible for it to break easily when underneath the mask."
"Not when fighting. I nearly broke my jaw several times when I didn't have my glasses!"
Hornet tilted his head, not convinced by the glasses. "But don't foxes have good eyesight? Even in the dark?"
"You know that a fox can be blind at times! I might not live long because of that."
"Well, that would just shorten their lifespan," said Hornet matter-of-factly.
The fox blinked a few times. "That reminds me. I knew that you had already figured things up two years ago, but how did you know that I was the Crimson Paw quickly? It couldn't be just from your friends."
Hornet chuckled, pointing to a small TV hanging from the ceiling. "Well, I would have said that Marmalade's prison sentence increased not because of the crimes you did, but you would have torn that smirk off his stupid face if he tried finding evidence. Snake DID blow it on his computer."
On television, it presented a news report that Marmalade had been cleared from any charges the Crimson Paw did. However, he was still charged for his own crimes the detectives managed to detect. As the image of a panicking Marmalade changed back to the news reporter, they announced that the real identity of the Crimson Paw was still a mystery. A myth that remained in the lost stories of Los Angeles.
"So I guess they'll never know who it was the whole time," said Diane, cracking a smile.
Hornet looked serious, however. "Diane, this has been going on for two years. And yet, I heard you considering telling the truth."
The fox flinched but scolded herself for feeling confronted. "OK, yeah. I tried finding a way to tell everyone about who I was before. So far, it's Doom who knows. He preferred to keep his mouth shut about it."
The little bug faintly remembered the crow. He seemed quite broody yet hiding some skeletons in his closet.
"Correction: beak shut," pointed out Hornet. "Wouldn't he have told anyone as well?"
"He doesn't want me to get into trouble," explained Diane. "Even though there had been rumors that I was the Crimson Paw due to my association with the Bad Guys, he thinks I would be in bigger trouble. All in the 'lie' of being the town's 'well-respected governor'." At this, she sarcastically wiggled her fingers around. Her self-disappointment was visible, even appearing uncomfortable. "And…he has a point since that could get those I know in trouble as well."
Hornet frowned. There was a bit of frustration but also concern. Despite not seeing eye-to-eye, he knew too well what this could mean for Diane; her high power as the governor made things more worrying.
"Diane, this isn't a good idea," he said, rubbing his arms. "You hiding your identity would have been much easier if not for the robes you wear. Have you ever been careful about the likelihood of being exposed?"
"Well, I used to be one of the greatest Bad Guys before," said Diane defensively. "Of course, I'm not unprepared. I know someday I will be stuck in hell, but I have a few plans in case anything goes wrong with the reveal."
"Nobody is prepared," admitted Hornet. "This is in line with the other criminals I'm talking about. As soon as someone finds out, you'll have a larger hit pasted over your head. They will know how much power you have in covering your crimes."
"How do you know about that?" asked Diane, raising an eyebrow quizzically. "You don't hide your face but handled it fine with the couple of warrants towards you. How do you know someone would not think of what I tried doing nowadays?"
Hornet waved his arm around lazily. He wasn't pointing to a specific spot, but he was gesturing at an invisible landscape of crime riddling the streets. "Because I know and met people with these high ranks. And from where I know, they would…"
He hesitated to say the rest but, eventually, let his words come out.
"...end up doing worse than those who need to strategize carefully. The media is already buzzing, so this 'balance' is unbalanced. Not to mention, me and the Bad Guys might hold it against you if you do the unhonorable. Just one third party finding out and then boom. Your whole life is ruined."
The fox thought of bringing up another point, but she did not have one. This wasn't the first time she was reminded of similar incidents like this. Given that she never invested with other criminals as the Crimson Paw, she was far out of her league to know the response from the criminal world compared to the more savvy Bad Guys who initially took pride in them seen as villains.
Hornet knew more about the Bad Guys, so there was a lot for her to learn about how she tried presenting herself. Maybe it might have to be how they metaphorically wore a mask to appear like someone else doing the job. For Diane, it was more layered than just that.
"I-I guess so," said the fox finally. Her ears and shoulders drooped, resigned. "It wouldn't matter anyway. Not like another criminal will beat me first in revealing the truth."
"Well, if it's not us or Marmalade, then who would?" wondered Hornet.
The idea of what the rest of the government council would do to Diane if they found out was too overwhelming for her to think. Hornet noticed this, deciding not to push further. He remained quiet in acknowledgement that Diane was trying to atone for her past mistakes. Even if it was messier in the present.
"OK," said the little bug as he rested on the armrest. "We'll put that to later. So anyways, life treating you well?"
Diane shrugged, moving her head to say 'so-so'. "Eh, it's been alright, but the paperwork." She blew a raspberry at this. "Though, things might be a bit more interesting with the government. Which is why I'm here."
"And that is?" asked Hornet.
"I'll explain when the rest of Bad Guys come out." It was then Diane decided to address the rings Hornet was wearing. "Speaking of which, you got those recently?"
Hornet blushed, smiling bashfully. "I got engaged."
"And who's the lucky guy?" teased Diane, smiling.
"My dear Piranha." Hornet giggled bashfully, hoping to see Piranha soon. "We just got back from our trip and during that time, I gave him the rings."
The fox remembered something. She lifted a finger and inhaled with a huge excited grin, only for Hornet to immediately cover her mouth shut.
"NOPE!" exclaimed Hornet. "No questions, please!"
"Aww…" whined Diane, her ears lowering in an attempt to look innocent. "I want to know!"
"Sorry, but hard pass," said Hornet, his face burning.
"C'mon, I've been hearing a rumor of how you exactly had your first stand-off around when you and Piranha started dating."
Hornet was quick to shoot it down. "How about I simplify it? Me and Piranha only started making out after he was released from prison. We did it in his bedroom."
"No," said Diane, wagging a finger. "One guy on Twitter claimed he saw you and Piranha getting drunk at the Chrome Bar, the same bar the Bad Guys often visit. He said that after at least two bottles, you two went out at 8 PM and settled for a motel room."
Hornet shook his head, flustered. "That is all completely lies! It's social media, all lies!"
"But antideanville never lies to anyone for no reason."
"He only shills true crime. He must have got the facts bungled up."
"Well, not all people got facts bungled up. I mean, if a director shows a lot of facts while making movies that do car crashes in the most unrealistic way possible, then he doesn't know what he is doing."
"Well, maybe that guy was just on drugs," suggested Hornet. "I say don't listen to whatever rumors they have. Whatever they are, they aren't real."
Diane looked disappointed, nearly whimpering like a real fox. "But-!"
"No!"
Diane lowered her voice to a whisper. "...but-"
"Nuh-uh."
Silence.
Then…
"How about-?"
"No, no offers," said Hornet. "Nothing's gonna bribe me."
[End of Song]
Fortunately, a couple of smooth and sly voices barking in relief drew their attention away from the conversation. The Bad Guys were already pouring in with the cop supervising them to not get into more trouble.
They were in for a surprise to see Diane and Hornet waiting for them!
"Ah, Diane!" said Wolf happily.
"Hi there, Wolf," said Diane, smiling.
"Hi, Diane…" said Snake flatly, not pleased to see Diane.
"Basically me," muttered Hornet.
"Abejorro!" squealed Piranha, suddenly appearing below him. Like a chubby child trying to get his parents' attention, he was jumping up and down to get his fiance's attention. "Good to see you here today!"
Unfazed, Hornet chuckled, lowering down to give a kiss on Piranha's cheek. "Good to see you as well! I was worried at first that you would be sent away."
"I'm fine," said Piranha, grinning. "Mostly, it's kind of my fault. I picked the wrong fight club."
"Were you exactly here to bail us out, Diane?" asked Shark.
"I wish," said the fox. "But you know that the deal Wolf made with me is that you guys MUST be careful not to get caught. Looks like it doesn't last for long."
"Well, anything can happen," said Wolf playfully. "I didn't say that we would stay good for long."
"Don't go poking any fingers at us," reminded Snake. "We're just doing us."
"Where were you anyway? You said that you got something and you were busy today."
"Oh yes," said Diane, taking out a notepad she stored from her jacket. "I came here to tell you something but just to note that the other governors were the ones who made it. Not everyone is gonna be on the same page as I am, but they think that it should be fair that I send you this."
This elicited some worried glances from the Bad Guys, exchanging these looks with each other. Diane was their only intel about the government and the guidelines made in the city. They might not worry too much, but the government's power could influence their lives. They never knew the other governors in Los Angeles, but they knew there would be enough criticism to put them in jail again.
"These guys have been on your radar for the past year," grumbled Diane as she looked through the small list. "So far, you have charges not just for robbery but for graffiti vandalism, joyriding, vigilantism and related extortion and leaking secret information."
"Wait, hold on, did you say 'leaking secret information'?" asked Piranha.
Everybody stared at Webs.
"Don't look at me!" protested the tarantula. "It was too good not to ignore once it got into the server!"
"Why is 'vigilantism' on the list?" questioned Shark. "This sounds a bit absurd since this would be what the government accepts to support the city."
Diane clenched her teeth nervously. "Apparently, they are trying to make things fair. Speaking of which, they noticed how much you went out of your way to help people. Wolf preventing a future bombing caught their full attention. They thought of making things fair for the hard work you did."
"Hard work?" scoffed Snake. "Look, Missy, you know we don't do anything for anyone. Especially not the government. We got our own business."
"Why suddenly do they want to make things 'fair'?" asked Piranha.
Diane paused for a moment, trying to hold up her composure. Wolf and Snake noticed something a little different today. Normally, even when being serious, Diane never appeared tense and could be quite snarky. But there was fear in her eyes. She was more sullen.
"Well…the other governors have been acting more strange lately," she explained. "Agitated as well. There were complaints about not…reaching what this country needs. They asked me for ideas. Whenever they mentioned you, my words fell flat to them." Her worried look became cold-stoned. "However, they are giving you a chance to stay out of prison forever."
This was something new to the Bad Guys? Them? Staying out of prison forever? That would be quite…hefty.
Wolf was starting to see through this, noting its strangeness. "What do they want from us?"
Diane cleared her throat. "I'm giving you all a chance to stay out of prison if you help me for a secret black-ops mission."
This got the Bad Guys confused.
"Wait a minute," said Wolf. "Black-ops? You mean THE black-ops?"
"Yes," said Diane in a serious tone. "THE black-ops."
Snake looked like he hit a wall. "Um, what are black ops? Some kind of…black operation? Wait, that doesn't sound right…"
"Does she mean black opticals?" asked Shark curiously. "I haven't got my laser eye surgery yet."
"Nah, I think she meant operating black radios," said Piranha, scratching his chin. "I never got to play with radios before!"
"That's because you kept breaking them," deadpanned Wolf.
"I think it was more because he kept trying to find international channels," said Hornet.
"I think Diane meant going to war," said Webs bluntly.
"Wait, what?!" said Shark, horrified.
"Hold on, hold on," said Hornet, raising his hands. "Black-ops aren't usually for war! Well, depending on the situation, but it's not like a war is going on." He glared at Diane. "Right?"
"Black-ops means covert military or political operations that may employ measures not generally authorized," said Diane helpfully. "Basically, like James Bond spies."
This flicked a switch in Snake, Piranha, Webs and Shark.
"Oh! Right, right…" they all said in unison.
Both Hornet and Wolf glanced at each other. They had a clear understanding of black-ops. Even Wolf knew a few friends who worked in black-ops before. But all that business was something they preferred staying the hell away from. Nothing good came out of this due to the more shady deals, violent procedures and conforming victimization of people who might not even be guilty.
To say the least, it was considered one of the most challenging crimes.
"So…you want us to do something REALLY bad," Wolf summarized, his left ear tilted in skepticism.
"For the right reasons," muttered Diane. "This one might fit you. The Bad Guys are known to be experts in heists, robberies and dealing with rival gangs. Your expertise would fit for this mission. No assassination skills required. This is an undercover mission."
Snake raised an eyebrow. "This is ordered by the government, right?"
Diane cocked a smile, pleased to demonstrate. "Not just them. Recently, due to them digging up my expertise, they offered me to join the International League of Heroes."
"League of Heroes?" repeated Piranha, surprised. "Where did we hear this before?"
"Oooh, this is like a league of superheroes?" said Shark giddily.
"There's no such thing as superheroes," said Snake dryly.
"That isn't an original name," snarked Webs.
"Yeah, not even the government can come off for a cool acronym for their sponsored black-ops league," agreed Diane. "Their missions are to maintain the world's peace in situations even the government can't reach. I'm telling you all this now: this organization is so secret that regular authorities don't know they exist."
"Now that would confirm that we would be like spies," asked Shark.
"Correct," said Diane. "So you'll be temporary agents of the International League of Heroes. The mission is in another country overseas, but you'll adapt to it finely. I'll be guiding you as your field commander."
"What's in it for us?" asked Hornet, unnerved. "W-What would you say to be the reason to take it so bad?"
"By completing the mission, the government will be more than happy to drop all charges against you." Diane's smile disappeared, turning to Hornet. "Unfortunately, you aren't allowed to come."
The little bug was surprised to hear this. "What?"
"Why not?" asked Piranha. "Hornet is a good fighter!"
"Yeah, he's part of the team!" agreed Webs. "Always has been!"
Diane sighed. She clearly didn't appear happy to break the news to them. "The government told me they looked through your profiles and they selected Wolf, Snake, Webs, Shark and Piranha. They specifically told me that Hornet shouldn't come. He already got most of his charges clear due to his department's role in dealing with the worst criminals. They believe that it would be best for you to remain here while the Bad Guys are gone."
Hornet shook his head. "No. If they have to do something, then I'm coming along to help."
"Hornet, I know how much they mean to you," said Diane sadly. "I've tried telling them several times, but they already read through the book. They think that it's fairer for you since this is your friends' duty to earn the same freedom as you do."
"Look, I've been left out before and won't let that happen again. And my friends promised me that. I don't care if I'm seemingly the odd one out for being 'special'. What's the odds with having seven people?"
"I agree," said Wolf firmly. "What would be the odds of having him joining in?"
Diane looked back at her notepad, agitated with rereading the reason. "Cause Hornet's department is more involved with other criminals here. Clients, cooperators and enemies. If they knew about his absence, then they would be out of order. The league might be tough, but they hate taking chances in hiding. If it happens, then we wouldn't have any advantage over who we might be against."
The way Diane put it off sounded robotic. There was barely any investment of her in this reasoning. It was kind of reasonable since Hornet wasn't always a strong government supporter, much like his friends. But this reason appeared offputting. He should be counted as well since he is a criminal himself. Drooping his shoulders, he groaned, placing a hand over his forehead.
"Then you better do good!" warned Hornet. "These are my friends you're taking along. My family. All I have. Who knows what might happen out there?"
Diane nodded. "I'll look after them. But then again, all of you, it's your choice. The only downside is that you won't be granted freedom if arrested again and I can't promise I'll be able to rescue you. They're pretty tight about this."
The Bad Guys were in deep thought of this decision. Joining a black-ops mission was the last thing any of them would do. Sure, they had clients asking them to do specific tasks or went out independently as vigilantes to protect the innocent. However, this was new territory for them. This would be where they were ordered by the government, a higher level. What was so secretive about this task that could 'maintain the peace'?
Piranha would have been happy to try it out if it wasn't for Hornet not coming along. It didn't sound right. It was as if the government might have something against Hornet. This mission would be to help people, so why couldn't more people join along? Number is power, after all.
Webs found it odd with the nature of this black-ops mission, especially if they only required them to do the mission. On one hand, she wondered if she should pass on it. On the other hand, that might mean she could use this chance to become one of the craftiest criminals ever.
Shark was neutral on the idea. Doing something for the government might be nice, but it made him wonder if they might assassinate people. This wouldn't be what his team was about since they were far from deceitful monsters. It made him afraid, actually. What if this would be like back when he was with…
Snake didn't enjoy the idea. If he didn't care, then he would have done whatever mission. But this included his friends and leaving one of their own was quite low despite the reason. He didn't trust Diane that much after her being the spike in his bond with Wolf two years ago. And he knew that trusting authorities might be a trap since all of them were guilty of crime.
Wolf was stuck in the middle. The offer was surprising since this could guarantee the Bad Guys' freedom. They were already far from having a normal life. However, the news that Hornet couldn't join along sank his heart. He would have everybody on board no matter the consequences. Yet again, the offer by the government to do something right, even if he didn't know yet, was tempting.
"I suggest for all of us to think twice about this," said Snake, hissing. "This would be unlike normal heists we enjoy."
"I second that," said Hornet sternly, narrowing his eyes. "The mission might be either dangerous or unsavory at its worst. I don't like it. I don't like it by one bit."
Diane made no attempt to protest against this. She knew that it might not be good, but the government reassured her that by doing this, a lot of people could be saved.
Wolf sighed, torn. He would be more than happy to help, but he didn't want to be burnt out by a quick decision. "Would it be alright if we can think about it? Alone?"
Diane nodded, understanding the hard decision. There was no pressure, but it was like a golden ticket for them to continue their lives without fear of being caught again. So that they could continue their journey on what would be suitable for them.
"Sure then," she said, a little dismissively. "Take all the time needed. We are currently not in a rush. But don't take too long, as it might not be open for long."
"I getcha," mumbled Wolf.
The Bad Guys filed out of the station one by one in silence, still in deep thought about whether to accept the offer. The only one who was left with Diane was Hornet.
The little bug narrowed his eyes in a way of sensing conflict. "You're sure that you tried asking the government?"
Diane was solemn. "They didn't want to change their decision."
Hornet sighed, reluctant about this. "I don't want my friends to get themselves in trouble. Plus, I only want to be with my friends. There is nothing more I have to ask. But…black-ops missions are something I wouldn't want to take. For any of us. Don't you have the slightest thought that these operations are…problematic?"
The fox rubbed the back of her head. "You have a point, but…I know I'm not really all made for taking on this new responsibility. But for some reason, it feels like it can be a good thing without trying to appear 'normal' as possible."
Hornet raised an eyebrow. "What about them? They have their eyes on them. What would they really get out of this?"
"I honestly don't know. Maybe it might…inspire them to be the best version of themselves when going out to save the world."
"Maybe not too inspirational." Hornet wasn't gonna take this easily. He knew that last time, somebody tricked the Bad Guys into their petty plan. Today offered a higher position, but the government could be shady. "Just know what you are doing here, Ms. Foxington. If you're the one in charge, then please don't split them up."
Diane could feel Hornet's fierce frustration towards her. She remained stoic and sober.
"I'll do my best to keep them safe, no matter what," she said.
Hornet hummed, not sharing another word. He flew off to return to the rest of the Bad Guys.
Once the little bug left, Diane took the time to wonder if needing the Bad Guys was a good idea. She questioned this to the rest of the council, but they were adamant about having them participate in this mission as long as there were no screw-ups. She thought back on how hard she tried to hide her secret as being the Crimson Paw and as already pointed out, its reveal could place her and the Bad Guys in severe territory than before.
With nobody watching her, she pulled out her phone and contacted the one guy she was supposed to call after explaining the offer.
"Mr. Thunders," she said, not even waiting for three beeps. "I've talked with them. They needed some time to think."
"Excellent," said a deep voice with a breathy tenor. "At least you managed to tell them. I'll let them decide for now, but if they don't come, you'll still be leading this mission's team."
Diane sighed. "I suppose so. Not like I got that much of a choice after joining."
"After you joined us," repeated Thunders. "And of course, with the Bad Guys on our side, we have an advantage in taking back what could be a threat to our home."
The fox nodded silently, agreeing to the cause.
"You didn't bump into Mr. Hornet, did you?"
"No, you said he cannot be around, right?" lied Diane. "This is the millionth time, but can't we just let him come along? He might even provide the information we needed! The Bad Guys won't be the Bad Guys without their sixth member. And we don't even have that many allies they are familiar with."
"I'm not gonna have him interfering. The sooner he knows, the more likely the Bad Guys will divert the safety of our country. We need him out of the picture as soon as possible."
That was that. Looks like Diane couldn't bring Hornet in safely. "...affirmative then."
"Good fox," said Thunders. "And while you're at it, I have to pass something on to you. Just please don't tell it to the Bad Guys until you're out of the country."
Whatever it was, it might not be good.
"What is it?" asked Diane.
AN: This has been something me and Rally discussed over. Blame me on liking to add two plots to a story. Hornet remaining in Los Angeles actually contributes a huge part to the mystery. And in fact, he'll be having his own adventure with a few influences of classic and hardboiled crime fiction.
Oh, also, Baron Hoggust will return soon, but in a later chapter.
This chapter is where we introduce Diane and Hornet. This is an interesting scene as when introducing them, I have to go into how this ties in with both mine and Rally's story.
Diane's character arc continues from 'No Decision Goes Unpunished' and it appears more strained due to new circumstances. I want to address the lingering outcomes of hiding her previous persona as the Crimson Paw for too long. Her clothing even reflects this to a degree. While her character arc might be considered smaller from the rest of the main cast, it holds significance in what she tries doing.
As this AU is separate from Rally's story, I was nervous about how I would depict Hornet and how faithful it would be to the original. Here in this AU, Hornet is already engaged with Piranha and has an established department that served to solve extreme crimes. He still has a dislike towards Diane, though I placed more emphasis on the powers and statuses they come from. Remember, Hornet is Rally's OC and not mine. Furthermore, for those new, his potential VA would be Rhenzy Feliz.
Shark's flashback is inspired by a starting flashback in Episode 8 of Arcane and it introduces us to a new character who will be introduced later. Diane's and Hornet's brief talk regarding the latter's mysterious stand-off with Piranha is actually a reference to She Hulk: Attorney at Law and the fishy dishy rumor in Peacemaker. And of course, there are references to Big Hero 6 all over the place.
Thank you for reading this chapter! If you enjoy this story so far, be sure to favorite or follow. Make to review as well. Constructive criticism is appreciated, but if any flames, then it's down the drain. Next chapter will be a bit more chill, but goes a bit further into the minds of our favorite Bad Guys.
Until next time, keep on rocking!